Project SEARCH – Intern’s Experiences with Employers

Project SEARCH is a supported internship programme run by Blackpool Council for young adults with learning disabilities.

It is targeted to students whose goal is to gain paid employment of more than 16 hours per week at the end of the year when they leave.

During the 12-month programme, a group of 10 to 12 students undertake teaching and learning through classroom and office-based activities and experience total immersion in the workplace via three rotations of work experience.

It’s great to see members of the RBN supporting this project but the team are always looking for more employers.

Benefits to your Business:

• Access to a new, diverse, talent stream with skills that match labour needs
• Gain intern/ employees with disabilities who serve as a role model for customers
• Performance and retention maintained in some high turnover positions

Below are just a few stories from the current cohort of students in their first placement.

Lenny
Role: Production Assistant
Company: DePuy Synthes, J&J

DePuy Synthes is a new employer for placements and what a start to the partnership!

Lenny has developed the skills to be able to work within the packaging team including inspecting blister products, checking labels/seals, sterilising rooms, donning PPE, using a banding machine and working in a team. Lenny has shown excellent attention to detail in this role and a very positive attitude towards learning about the role and the company.

Luke
Role: Linen Assistant
Company: The Cliffs Hotel

The Cliffs Hotel is another new employer on board for this placement and this has been a fantastic area for Luke to develop in.

Luke needed to build his confidence and was hesitant to work independently for the first few weeks. Luke is now able to complete linen runs on three floors independently and is able to sort linen accurately and to a good pace.

Lewis
Role: Housekeeping/Retail Assistant
Company: SEALIFE Blackpool

Lewis has worked incredibly hard in his placement. He has been able to balance a split role and, on some shifts, has worked on both the retail till and completed housekeeping toilet checks. Lewis’ confidence has grown and his customer service, particularly with children, has developed to an excellent standard.

If you would like to support Project SEARCH please contact Michelle.Walker@bitc.org.uk who can give you an introduction to one of the team.