UHNM Celebrates Seventh Cohort of Project SEARCH Graduates

A joint initiative between University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM), Newfriars College and Sodexo has celebrated student success for the seventh year in a row.

Seven of the latest students graduated from the programme on Friday 11 July after completing a rotation of three placements at UHNM, with a number of the graduates gaining full time paid employment at the Trust. 

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, Stafford to gain vital experience to help with future employment prospects, independence and confidence.

The graduates worked in areas including the hospital restaurant, housekeeping and Royal Stoke’s older adult’s ward.

Dave Ruscoe, Deputy Director of Estates, Facilities and PFI at UHNM, said: “It is a privilege to attend this year’s graduation ceremony. It is great to see the once shy interns grow into confident individuals and employees of the future here at UHNM. I would like to thank the interns for being so dedicated and engaged in the project, as well as our partners Sodexo for all the support they provide to the interns during their placements. I can’t wait to see them in action across the Trust and wish them the best of luck in their roles.” 

Three special awards were also presented amongst the celebrations, including the inspiring intern, the aiming high award and most improved intern. 

Frankie Croxton, Lead Job Coach for Project SEARCH at UHNM, said: “The Project SEARCH graduation is always a special time where we celebrate all of our interns and their achievements over the past year. This year our interns have worked so hard, going above and beyond to show what they are capable of, with some transitioning into paid employment which is testament to their dedication. Our partnership between UHNM, Sodexo and Newfriars College is truly life changing for our young people and long may it continue.”

Ever since the project was launched at UHNM, Project SEARCH has helped more than 30 young people with disabilities to find paid employment. 

Melissa Turner was one of this year’s graduates who has gained paid employment working on the elderly care wards as a ward assistant. Reflecting on her time as part of the project and said: “The elderly care wards have been such a welcoming area, and I feel like I have fit right in. I get to talk to the patients, and it gives me a sense of reward that I get to help them. 

“The project has helped me so much with my confidence and there has been a big improvement to my key skills. I couldn’t ask for better support and mentors while being on the programme, they are so supportive and encourage and help you to get a job.”