Meet the DFN Project SEARCH 2025 Graduates!
DFN Project SEARCH is a nationally recognised employability programme which supports young adults with learning differences to spend a year with a host workplace. Designed to help young people reach their full potential, and to give employers the opportunity to see it too, the programme is facilitated by a partnership between two charities, DFN and Hft. For interns, the aim is to build readiness for the workplace and nurture life skills like confidence and independence.
Over the past ten months, interns Alex, age 32, Hannah, age 29 and Emma, age 22, have taken part in the project. We caught up with them following their recent graduation ceremony, to find out more about their time on the scheme, what they learnt, and their plans for the future.
What made you want to join Project SEARCH?
The desire to get a job, previously I was delivering talks on autism and getting paid for that but opportunities for this were limited.
What new skills did you learn during the programme?
I learnt interview skills, the questions I might get asked and how I can answer. I learnt how to use a barista machine and use a till. And I learnt customer service skills. I feel I have gained more confidence since being on the programme and have learnt work skills like building my CV and applying for jobs.
Did Project SEARCH help you decide what kind of job or career you would like in the future?
Yes, it did. I am looking for recycling or retail work after completing placements in both of these areas.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying to Project SEARCH?
I would definitely recommend Project SEARCH and I would say to them it’s a good idea to join if you’re struggling for work.
What is one thing you will always remember about your time on Project SEARCH?
Starting the work placements and getting a feel of what the workplaces are actually like and being welcomed by the teams.
Name: Hannah
What made you want to join Project SEARCH?
I wanted to get more work experience first so I can get a job and live independently.
What new skills did you learn during the programme?
Using the till, serving customers, using the barista machine to make drinks, money skills, food prep, customer service and communication.
Did Project SEARCH help you decide what kind of job or career you would like in the future?
Yes, by trying different placements I found what I enjoy doing; café, kitchen and retail.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying to Project SEARCH?
I think I would tell them it’s a good idea as being on the programme gave me more experience, new skills and helped me gain confidence.
What is one thing you will always remember about your time on Project SEARCH?
I will remember my time with the other interns and getting to know them.
Name: Emma
What made you want to join Project SEARCH?
I joined Project SEARCH because I wanted to get a job but wasn’t sure what type of job I wanted to do.
What new skills did you learn during the programme?
Food preparation, communication, customer service, and teamwork.
Did Project SEARCH help you decide what kind of job or career you would like in the future?
Yes, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do but from doing my placement with Gwella in the café, I now know what I want to do and am looking forward to working with Gwella now that I have gained employment there.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying to Project SEARCH?
I would tell them it’s a good idea because it really helped me with my confidence.
What is one thing you will always remember about your time on Project SEARCH?
Working with the Gwella staff on my placement and being welcomed by them.
Graduation provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all of the 2025 interns, who are now ready to embrace their next challenges. Emma has accepted a permanent position at Gwella, and Alex is currently still enjoying his placement at Travis Perkins.
To find out more about DFN Project SEARCH, and how to apply to be part of the scheme visit: Home | DFN Project SEARCH
For more information about Project SEARCH and employability programmes within ClwydAlyn email Annie Jackson: annie.jackson@clwydalyn.co.uk