It’s been 10 years since our HSCP, University of Strathclyde and City of Glasgow College have been working in partnership to deliver DFN Project Search at the university.

Project Search has been changing lives of individuals and families for a decade now by supporting and enabling people with learning disabilities and/or autistic spectrum conditions to enter the world of work.

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. It’s delivered in partnership between a host business, college and supported employment service.

Since 2013, our staff in the HSCP’s Supported Employment Service have played 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.

This year the Project Search interns were recognised at an inspiring graduation ceremony at the University of Strathclyde’s Barony Hall to mark the end of the programme and celebrate the young people’s achievements.

So far, 97 young people have completed Project Search at the University of Strathclyde over the last 10 years and 65 have secured employment. This year, seven young people have already secured employment and the other three are being supported and are currently looking for employment.

To further mark the 10-year collaboration anniversary, a video focused on the journey of the interns and the positive outcomes they achieved was produced and shown at the graduation ceremony. You can view it on our HSCP’s YouTube Channel.

Angie Black, our HSCP’s Supported Employment Service Manager said: “I can’t believe it’s the 10-year anniversary of us [HSCP] working in partnership with the University of Strathclyde and City of Glasgow College to deliver Project Search at the university. I’m so proud of all the young people who have taken part and especially of all they have achieved, they’re an inspiration”.

She continued: “This project requires working in partnership with many organisations. In my experience working in partnership can be challenging but incredibly rewarding. We’ll continue to work together to ensure great outcomes to all of the young people that participate in this programme”.

Paul, one of this year’s interns who recently secured a full-time job, said: “I’m really enjoying my job. I have money now and I can even go on holiday! It’s something I never thought I would be able to do. Honestly, I feel I wouldn’t be where I am without all your support”.

Applications are open for Project SEARCH
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!

Project Search is fulltime Monday to Friday, 9am until 4pm at one of our Project Search sites (NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde or University of Strathclyde). Participants are expected to have excellent timekeeping and attendance. Darren, one of last year’s Project Search graduates, said: “Project Search is a fantastic programme to do. It helps your confidence grow, getting you more experience and meeting new people. It helped me get my job and it’s the best thing I have ever done.”

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 that you may have.

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