UHNM recognised for supporting more than 70% of young people with disabilities find paid employment

UHNM recognised for supporting more than 70% of young people with disabilities find paid employment

A life-changing employment focused education programme at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) which aims to give young people with educational needs and disabilities the opportunity to get ‘hands on’ experience in the workplace has been recognised for its employment outcomes.

The Project SEARCH programme at UHNM gives 18 to 24 year olds with disabilities and learning difficulties the opportunity to work at Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital to gain vital experience to help with future employment prospects, independence and confidence.

The joint initiative between UHNM, Newfriars College and Sodexo achieved 86 per cent employment for UHNM’s 2022 graduates.

At the Annual Project Search Conference, UHNM was recognised for this important work.

The awards are given to organisations which have achieved more than 70 per cent employment outcomes for the academic year.

Stephanie Sale, Head of Careers and Supported Employment at UHNM, said: “Since the programme started at UHNM our interns have gone from strength to strength. Every year the students blow us away and it’s so rewarding watching them grow and develop throughout their placements and into paid work.

“Our students make a fantastic contribution to the work place and this award celebrates their commitment.”

UHNM has been achieving great success with Project SEARCH since 2018 and has helped 21 young people secure paid work, 17 of which were taken on by UHNM and Sodexo.

Lorraine Whitehead, Director of Estates, Facilities and PFI at UHNM, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that UHNM have been recognised for the great work they do alongside Project SEARCH. I am so proud of all of the work our students do and their drive and determination shines through.”

She added: “The project opens so many doors for our students and I am extremely proud that we are able to facilitate this at UHNM.”