Neve Etherington embarked on her journey with Project Search in September 2023, when she joined the Learning for Living and Work Supported Internship. By June 2024, she had completed this transformative experience, leaving an unforgettable mark both on herself and on those around her.
Project Search, a transition-to-work program for individuals with disabilities, collaborates with the NHS to provide valuable job opportunities within hospital roles such as volunteering, IT, and chaplaincy. This initiative targets 18 to 24-year-olds in their final year of education, offering them a gateway to the world of work. In partnership with Barnsley Hospital and Barnsley Council, Project Search brings invaluable opportunities to many students.
As part of the internship, Neve completed a rotation of work placements which allowed her to experience life in various departments. Neve’s first placement within the Volunteering team was pivotal in boosting her confidence, resilience and teamwork skills. The second placement with the Learning Disability Nurse allowed Neve to gain deeper self-understanding and recognise the unique experiences of neurodiverse individuals.
Her third placement, with the Neonatal Unit and Children’s Services, was particularly enriching. Neve found it “fascinating and fun”, especially her work with the Environment Co-ordinator, which provided essential experience that helped her to secure a new job.
Reflecting on her journey, Neve proudly states: “Project Search has helped with everything from my confidence to getting practical support. It has provided me with the opportunity to experience different placements, meet new people and gain insight into the world of work.”
Neve has now gained paid employment as a Facilities Operative in Barnsley Hospital. Some of her tasks include managing a cleaning schedule and cleaning wards for patients.
Neve’s mother, Lisa Etherington, expressed her delight, and said: “I think this has been a brilliant scheme and I’m so pleased that Neve was able to be part of it. She’s grown in confidence and gained really useful practical experience in a supportive and understanding environment. So much so, that she’s secured a part-time job at the hospital as a Facilities Operative. I’m so proud of her and I’d like to thank all the Project Search staff and the hospital staff on Neve’s placements for their support, help, and understanding.”
Adding to the praise, one of the Project Search facilitators at the College, Helen Mangham, shared: “Neve has shown incredible growth and determination throughout her time with Project Search. It has been a pleasure to witness her development and to see her achieve her goals.”
For more information about the Project Search programme and its benefits, visit www.barnsley.ac.uk/projectsearch , email LFLWadmin@barnsley.ac.uk or call 01226 216 248.
Last updated: 7th January 2025