National award for jobs programme

An employability programme for young adults with additional support needs at University Hospital Monklands has received a national award.

Project Search was commended at the DFN conference with an outcome award for its record of having 75 per cent of participants completing the programme and moving into work.

Marking its 10th anniversary this year, the initiative offers participants work-focused college courses and on-the-job work experience, and involves NHS Lanarkshire, North and South Lanarkshire councils, New College Lanarkshire, ISS and Serco.

The Monklands project was one of 16 from across the UK to be honoured – as was its sister programme at Wishaw General Hospital.

North Lanarkshire Council supported enterprise manager Donella Duff said:“We’re delighted our Project Search sites in Monklands and Wishaw have been recognised at this national level, but what’s even more pleasing is the results they’re delivering, helping young adults secure and retain employment.

“Our students tell us that the elements of classroom learning and skill development from work placements increases their confidence and chance of securing employment in the job market; and key to the project’s success is the strong partnership working.”

Pictured from left are Project search founder Susie Rutkowski, Maura Lynch of DFN Project Search, New College Lanarkshire lecturer Liz Paterson, David Forbes-Nixon of the DFN Foundation, North Lanarkshire job coach Neil Dunlop and Project Search founder Erin Riehle.