Ollie’s Success Story

Ollie began the Supported Internship Programme at Chelmsford College in September 2022. Diagnosed with autism, Ollie is kind and thoughtful and though eager to work, he was unsure of the right placement. Given his excellent communication with patients, he was placed as a Health Care Assistant on a ward and starting with routine tasks, Ollie quickly learned to take blood pressure and record health information. Ollie embraced challenging aspects of the role, such as personal care, working with dementia patients, and supporting those in pain. Both staff and patients appreciated his caring nature and attention to detail.

Ollie attended his first job interview with a panel of six from various NHS sites. Despite initial nerves, his wit and humour shone through, and he was offered a Healthcare Assistant position after a brief decision break. Ollie is thrilled with his new role, gets along well with colleagues, and is working part-time while completing his NVQ2 certificate.

Matthew

Matthew showed great commitment and interest in his work placement at Chelmsford Library from the start, despite initial nerves as he had just finished school in July and wanted a quiet role which involved organising resources.

Friendly and polite, Matthew quickly settled in and got along well with his colleagues. He was willing to ask for help, such as understanding the Dewey system for locating books and with practice, Matthew gained confidence and began working independently. Before Christmas, he helped with the weekly 'rhyme time' singing groups for babies and toddlers, initially greeting attendees and later joining in the singing. This experience led him to consider a career as a teaching assistant.

When an apprenticeship at Dovedale Nursery became available, Matthew applied, inspired by his enjoyment of 'rhyme time.' With his job coach's support, he improved his interview skills and successfully secured the apprenticeship in September 2023. He is now thriving in his new role, and is gaining further skills and experience within the childcare industry.

Frankie Crowther

Frankie joined Harlow College Essex in 2021, enrolling in the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT, Cyber Security, and Networking, achieving an triple merit qualification. He then joined the Supported Internship programme and was placed in the IT department at Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust.

Initially anxious, Frankie was given a quiet workspace. His mentor, Tony, and his job coach provided task breakdowns, which suited his learning style and with Frankie's extensive IT knowledge he soon began to work independently. Over time, Frankie gained confidence, moved to the main office, and supported IT team members on ward rounds and at the Tech Bar. His confidence grew, and he became a valuable team member.

Frankie met Phil Holland, Chief Information Officer, who was impressed with his work ethic. After his internship, Frankie successfully interviewed for an IT Customer Relations Officer position at the hospital, using skills learned during his internship. Frankie has grown into an independent and confident young man, thriving in his role and continuing to develop his potential, thanks to the Supported Internship programme.

Rafe

Rafe started the Supported Internship Programme at Broomfield Hospital in September 2022 as a bright and eager young person. From day one, he was ready to impress, making it an easy decision to place him in the Pharmacy Department. Rafe's tasks included delivering medication to the wards, ensuring quantities were correct, picking medication from stores, packing it for delivery, and scanning it into the system. He received fantastic feedback from staff, with the manager often expressing how happy she was to have him on the team. Rafe was so efficient that his workdays were quickly increased to four per week.

Despite challenges with his sight and hearing, Rafe worked hard every day, always asking for new challenges and showing increasing dedication to his work. His commitment earned him a full-time paid role as a Pharmacy Assistant. He attended his first interview with his job coach and was offered a fixed-term contract, which later became permanent.

Rafe is now happier than ever in his job and serves as a fantastic mentor and role model to new intern George, who hopes to follow in Rafe's footsteps.