Project Search

Project Search is a full time one year supported employment programme for young adults with learning disabilities or autism. Cardiff Council, in conjunction with the Vale Council and local special schools and specialist resource bases in mainstream schools, offer integrated work experience opportunities within Cardiff and Vale University Health Board during an academic year.

The aim of the programme is to support the transition from school to work and for students to gain full time employment at the end of the year, either within the health board or externally. Students spend time preparing for their placements via an Employability Curriculum and complete the NHS mandatory training modules in readiness for their 3 placements across the various departments of the hospital. Students are supported by the Project Search Team throughout their placements and are assigned a mentor from within the department and are also given the opportunity to reflect upon their working day by returning to the classroom at the end of each day.

Students will complete Level 2 qualifications in First Aid, Manual Handling, Customer Service and Food Safety in readiness for their placements and Travel Training is incorporated into the project should this be required. During their placements, students are fully immersed into the department and are given the opportunity to experience the world of work. Students remain on roll with their school during their time at Project Search and will have school holidays as per a school year. Progress reviews take place during and at completion of each placement giving all parties an opportunity to reflect upon the placement and continue to enhance their developing skills.

To apply for the programme you must:

- Be still on roll in school at the time you start the programme, either in year 12, 13 or 14

- Have a learning disability/or autism

- Require a year of supported intensive, repetitive skills building opportunities to prepare for employment

- Be a resident of Cardiff and the Vale

- Be able to pass the necessary hospital employment checks (DBS)

- Be willing to work towards independent travel

- Want a job!

No academic or qualification entry requirements are needed in order to apply for this programme.

For more information on this opportunity please contact either amy.moreno-gray@cardiff.gov.uk / 07800917540 or david.oconnor@cardiff.gov.uk.