Project SEARCH intern finds her dream job

Project SEARCH, an exciting project to give students with learning disabilities and/or those on the autistic spectrum the opportunity to get hands-on experience in the workplace, has helped another young person find success in the work place.

Amy Gill who recently completed her one-year internship at University Hospital Crosshouse has just secured permanent employment as a domestic assistant in the hospital. Current manager, Jacqueline Armstrong, Hotel Services Manager said: “Amy gained experience working within several areas of domestic services while taking part in Project SEARCH, which helped to give her the knowledge and skills to apply for and be successful in securing a permanent post with us. “When her job coach at East Ayrshire Council recently asked what her dream job would be, Amy replied without hesitation, “To work for the NHS”. “It’s certainly not every day that we get the chance to make dreams come true but we are very happy to have helped Amy do just that. We would like to say a huge well done to Amy and wish her every success in her new role.” Project SEARCH first launched at University Hospital Crosshouse in December 2013. It originated in Cincinnati in 1996 and involves a partnership between a host business, education services and adult supported employment. The latest collaboration between NHS Ayrshire & Arran, East Ayrshire Council and Ayrshire College will help 17-24 year olds in East Ayrshire, who have learning difficulties and/ or are on the autistic spectrum, build skills for employment. Through a combination of classroom sessions and hands-on work placements at University Hospital Crosshouse, the project helps students in their last year of education prepare to find a job. The interns are supported by tutors from the Ayrshire College and a job coach from East Ayrshire Council. Our latest interns started the programme on Monday 28 August 2017 and our next programme will start in 2018. If you would like more information, please call Elaine Wright, Lead Job Coach on 01563 826245 or e-mail her on elaine.wright@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.