Celebrating success: Project SEARCH interns graduate, become more independent and step into employment

DFN Project SEARCH has been making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people in Glasgow for over 10 years. Project SEARCH is an innovative and transformative work-based learning programme for young adults aged 18 to 29 with learning disabilities, autism spectrum conditions or both. It provides them with real work experience combined with training and support in employability and independent living skills, with the main aim of developing a more independent life and gaining and sustaining a job.

Since 2013, our staff in Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership’s (HSCP) Supported Employment Service have played a vital role in the development and delivery of both Project SEARCH sites, hosted at NHS  Greater Glasgow & Clyde (NHSGGC)‘s Royal Infirmary and the University of Strathclyde.

This June, the programme celebrated the graduation of this year’s interns with two ceremonies held at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Strathclyde. In total, 19 young people are graduating from the programme, many of whom have already secured employment. Several others are currently interviewing or awaiting job offers, with high hopes for more positive outcomes in the coming weeks.

These graduation ceremonies serve as powerful reminders of the accomplishments of the young people who take part in Project SEARCH. They also provide an opportunity for families, mentors and supporters to come together in celebration.
One of this year’s interns shared: “I highly recommend Project SEARCH to anyone thinking of doing it. They really helped me understand my strengths.”

The success of the programme lies in its tailored approach helping young people with learning disabilities, autism or both build the skills, confidence, and experience they need to gain and maintain full-time, paid employment and improve and maintain their independence, health and wellbeing within their communities.

Importantly, support doesn’t end at graduation, our HSCP’s Supported Employment Service continues to assist those still looking for work and provides job coaching to those who have secured employment. This ongoing guidance helps the young people transition smoothly into the workplace and thrive in their new roles.

Angie Black, Supported Employment Service Manager, said: “I love being able to celebrate the achievements of the interns at the graduation ceremony. I’m so proud of all the young people who’ve taken part and of all they’ve achieved — they’re truly an inspiration.”

Jason Mokrovich, Business Development Manager for the service, added: “While the graduations celebrate how far the interns have come along over the course of the programme and demonstrate the transformative impact it has had on them, they also crystallise for us the close partnership working between the host employers (NHSGGC and University of Strathclyde), colleges, families and our service to support them to achieve their potential and thrive. We could not do it without the resources they bring to the table and, more importantly, their commitment and passion to the programme and young people.”

For more information or an informal chat about Project SEARCH, please contact supportedemployment@glasgow.gov.uk.