Hft has launched a new transition to employment programme for adults over 25 years with learning disabilities and/or autism to gain competitive, marketable skills to enter into paid work.
The DFN Project SEARCH programme is being run in partnership with ClwydAlyn and Flintshire County Council who will provide a classroom base, access to internship opportunities and business connections in the community.
It starts in September 2022 and applicants must live in Flintshire, have a learning disability and/or autism, be willing to work 16 hours a week or more and commit to a full-time, one-year programme.
Jordan Smith, Flintshire regional manager at Hft, said: “The usual pathways for funding a DFN Project SEARCH programme are via a programme of education which is usually limited to individuals who are under the age of 25. Hft’s new programme is being run in partnership with Flintshire County Council and will allow Hft to offer the opportunity to individuals over the age of 25 for the first time.”
The curriculum includes team building, workplace safety, presentation skills, job seeking skills, money management and employer specific skills. Internship examples include catering, administration, reception work, maintenance, construction and painting/decorating.
At the end of the one year, an employability coach will assist graduates to create a CV, apply for jobs and prepare for interviews. For those who need it, Hft’s follow-on job coach will support their transition into the workplace and help them learn their new job role.
