Royal garden party is just the job to celebrate Colin’s success
Clyde College and sees students working towards achieving a recognised qualification in employability.
Colin, who attended Mary Russell School, in Paisley, passed the course with flying colours and has gone on to secure full- time employment within Renfrewshire Council as a cleaner.
DFN Project SEARCH provided Colin with real-life work experience combined with training in employability and independent living skills, as well as formulating a CV, to help him make the transition from school to adult life.
More than 60 per cent of graduates have gained a job through the scheme, which was a finalist in last year’s Guardian Public Service Awards and a winner in Renfrewshire Council’s 2018 Staff Recognition Awards.
Colin said: “I enjoyed my placements as part of DFN Project SEARCH and I am still here now as a result.
“Every day is different and I really look forward to coming into work every single day. I get my tasks for the day and I get to work.
“At lunchtime, I do my rubbish run, which is my favourite.
“I have learned a great deal along the way and I have noticed a real difference in myself.
“I have learned how to ask for help when I am struggling with things and I have a great support network around me.
“It is great to have a job that I enjoy doing.
“I have gained more confidence. “I have come out of my shell and now talk a lot more.”
Lynne Tervit, facilities coordinator at Renfrewshire House, added: “DFN Project SEARCH is an excellent programme which I personally feel doesn’t get enough recognition.
“When people see young adults with learning disabilities, they don’t always appreciate how capable they are.
“I didn’t have any experience of working with young people with a learning disability, but it has been a hugely rewarding experience for me to work with Colin.”
DFN Project SEARCH CEO Maura Lynch said: “We are over the moon that DFN Project SEARCH and Colin have received this level of recognition.
“It is testament to the hard work of our project partners and our cohort of graduates that we continue to have these wonderful success stories.
“We will continue to work closely with our project partners to develop the programme, ensuring that young people across the country with learning disabilities are given the chance to get a good job and be seen as a fantastic talent pool for employers.”
Every day is different and I look forward to coming into work every single day