Special needs students graduate from Wishaw General training course

Seven young people with a learning disability have graduated from a pioneering training course at Wishaw General designed to help them into work.

The programme called Project Search provides each trainee with classroom studies and three on-the-job placements in a variety of settings, including administration, nursing and mail services.

The first eight trainees who graduated last year secured permanent jobs and already three of the seven young people who completed the second programme are working.

Project Search is run by North Lanarkshire Council, NHS Lanarkshire, Serco, North Lanarkshire’s Working and Motherwell College and is the first initiative of its kind in Scotland.

“I would like to congratulate all our graduates on their achievements,” said Wishaw councillor Sam Love, convener of the council’s housing and social work committee.

“Project Search is an excellent initiative to support young people with a learning disability to gain the skills and experience they need to secure a job and increase their independence. It builds on the first-class service provided by the council’s Supported Employment team and shows how partnership working between the private and public sectors can deliver real benefits.

“All eight students from our first training programme last year secured a permanent job as a result, which has made a very positive difference to their lives. I’m delighted that already three of this year’s graduates are in work and I’m sure the others will be successful in finding employment soon too. Each student has shown commitment and enthusiasm to learn, and this is recognised by employers who want staff with the skills and attitude to do their job to the highest standards.”

A job coach from the council’s supported employment scheme works closely with each trainee during their placements.

Ian Ross, Acting Chief Executive at NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Well done to all the graduates. Project Search is a tremendous initiative that makes a real difference to helping young people learn new skills and lead more independent lives.

“The young people have worked very hard with great dedication. To see how much they have achieved with Project Search is quite inspirational.”

Serco provide the food at the hospital. Manager Rhona Dunsmore said: “Project Search has been extremely successful in year one and two in providing real working experience along with academic studies to help prepare each student to gain meaningful employment.

“We look forward to welcoming our third-year students to Serco to continue to provide guidance, support and work experience to each individual.”