Project Search Graduates Prove the Power of Inclusive Employment

Eight young people from North Wales recently celebrated a personal milestone, as they successfully graduated from a 12-month long inclusive employment internship programme. While taking part in a ceremony held in their honour at Llys Raddington in Flint, they all received their graduation certificates.

A group of eight talented young interns have celebrated completing their internship programmes, following a year of hands-on work placements with leading employers across Flintshire.

Seen in the image above (L-R), Shane, Dylan, Thomas, Lily, Daniel, Adam, Arijus and Kate have all completed the DFN Project Search internship programme supported by HFT, ClwydAlyn and BCUHB. Each of the graduates embraced their work placements, which took place across various departments at ClwydAlyn housing association, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and Flintshire Council.

DFN Project Search’s Internship Programme is a nationally recognised scheme, which supports young adults with learning differences or autism to spend a year with a host organisation. The programme, which is facilitated by a partnership between two charities, DFN and Hft, aims to help build readiness for the workplace by nurturing life skills, supporting confidence and promoting independence.

Intern Thomas and his parents attended the graduation ceremony. Thomas successfully completed a painting and decorating internship at WallLag via ClwydAlyn.

Each of the interns took part in at least one placement during the duration of the programme, with some taking on two or three roles.

"I have gained so much more confidence in myself since I started this placement that I can take into the real world and I can do more for myself.”

Dylan, who enjoyed a placement in the kitchen at one of ClwydAlyn’s independent living schemes

Intern

“I have enjoyed everything I have done, including meeting lots of new people and learning new things. If you’re thinking of doing the DFN Project Search programme, I would say, go for it! You’ll gain experience and new skills!”

Kate, who took part in three NHS Environment placements, including two at Holywell Hospital

Intern

“It’s been incredible to have so much support from the staff and the HFT team
“My advice to anyone considering the programme is; absolutely – do it! It’s genuinely been a game changer for me.”

Adam, who worked at Preswylfa as an admin assistant

Intern

With graduation now complete, the interns are ready to embark on the next chapters of their careers. Some have already been successful in gaining employment. Including Adam, who has been offered an Apprenticeship Preswylfa in Mold and, Arijus who is now working at Chester City Football Club.

With the other interns exploring further opportunities to develop their future careers and applying for new positions.

Sian Williams, Executive Director of People, Culture and Communications at ClwydAlyn, who attended the ceremony said: “The recent Graduation Event provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the achievements of these inspiring young people. The interns brought enthusiasm, determination and made a genuine contribution to ClwydAlyn, and we’re proud to have been part of their journey so far. Throughout their placements, they embraced new skills, gained valuable workplace experience and built confidence for the future.

“As an organisation that values hope, we were delighted to help the interns focus on realising their potential and gaining career experience. We have been part of this programme for a number of years, and we look forward to continuing to host interns from the DFN Project Search scheme in the future.”

Kirsty Matthews, CEO of DFN Project SEARCH said: “We are incredibly proud of all those completing their Supported Internships at ClwydAlyn, who have shown that with the right support and opportunities, young people with a learning disability, who are autistic, or both, can thrive in the workplace.

Our partnership with ClwydAlyn continues to open doors that might otherwise have been closed, proving that inclusive employment isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. Every success story shows what is possible when we invest in the potential of our young people”.

A spokesperson from Hft said: “Hft is honoured to continue supporting current and future interns on this programme. We are committed to nurturing aspirations and providing opportunities for people to explore new experiences, develop their skills, and achieve their potential.”

Dyfed Edwards, Chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: “One of the highlights of my year is attending our internship graduation ceremonies and meeting the incredible young people who have taken part in the programmes. It is always inspiring to hear about their experiences and see how much they have developed during their time with us.

“Our interns bring enthusiasm, fresh perspectives and are a real inspiration. They have made a positive contribution to teams across the Health Board, and their achievements should be celebrated.

“I would like to congratulate every graduate on completing their internship and thank them for the impact they have had on our organisation. I wish them all the very best for the future and look forward to seeing where their careers take them next.”

The programme has provided participants with the opportunity to develop practical skills, build confidence, and gain insight into careers within the NHS and wider healthcare sector.

The graduation events recognised the hard work, dedication and personal development demonstrated by the students during their placements.

Tracey Amos, Operational Lead on Project Search/Supported Internships for the Health Board, said: “We are incredibly proud of all the graduates who have completed our internship programme this year. Their enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to learn have made a real impact across our services.

“The internship programme is an important part of nurturing future talent and helping young people explore the wide variety of careers available within the NHS.

“I’d also like to thank all of our partners and Health Board staff who support Project SEARCH/Supported Internships, across North Wales, the programmes wouldn’t be such a great success without them.”

To find out more about DFN Project Search, and how to apply to be part of the scheme visit: Home | DFN Project SEARCH

For information about hosting a supported employment internship email: Kelly.higgins@hft.org.uk or Jennifer.lamb@hft.org.uk

To find out more about current employment opportunities at ClwydAlyn visit: Home | ClwydAlyn