DFN Project SEARCH is 10 years old this year in Glasgow with over 75% of young people completing the programme and gaining full-time employment. 

Do you know anyone with learning disabilities and or autism spectrum conditions who is looking for a way to develop and enter the world of work? If yes, then encourage them to apply for Project SEARCH!

DFN Project SEARCH is an innovative and exciting work experience programme for young people aged between 18 to 29 years with learning disabilities and or autistic spectrum conditions. In Glasgow, the 2023 programme is open for applications and will begin in August.
The programme is extremely effective because it’s specifically designed to support young people with learning disabilities and or autistic spectrum conditions develop the skills and confidence needed to get into and keep full-time paid employment. Project SEARCH was launched in 1996 and is now delivered in over 500 sites across the world; this includes our two sites based here in Glasgow. 

Project SEARCH works by partnering with large employers who are called host businesses that deliver the programme.

Staff in Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership’s (HSCP) Supported Employment Service play a key role in the development and delivery of both Project SEARCH sites in the host businesses of NHS Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Strathclyde. 

The one-year opportunity is a full-time programme where participants, called ‘interns,’ are onsite within the host business Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm. During this time interns undertake up to three different rotations each lasting 10 weeks in different parts of the business based on their strengths and interests. They learn new skills and improve their confidence and ability to compete for a job.

Angie Black, Supported Employment Service Manager within our HSCP, said: “Every year we see what incredible difference Project SEARCH makes to the young people who complete the programme. We see them become more confident in themselves and feel rewarded by their employment. It’s a unique opportunity and our team is delighted to be able to support Project SEARCH here in Glasgow”.

The programme ends with a graduation ceremony and the interns are then offered support in applying and keeping a job through our HSCP’s Supported Employment Service. 

To apply to Project SEARCH visit the website of Glasgow Clyde College or City of Glasgow College and complete the application forms. 

To find out more about Project SEARCH before applying you can email our Supported Employment Service at supportedemployment@glasgow.gov.uk and ask any questions you may have.

Find out more about Project SEARCH at www.dfnprojectsearch.org.