Betty's journey to employment

During the latter stages of her education, Betty had the support of an Education, Health and Care Plan and an EHC practitioner, to help her achieve her goals and prepare for adult life. During secondary school, she received tailored support that helped her build confidence, become more independent and develop the skills she needed to move on to further education.

From school, Betty successfully moved to a mainstream college. Through regular reviews with the college and her EHCP practitioner, it was clear that one of her main goals was to get a paid job in the future.

To help prepare for work, Betty completed an employability course that combined college learning with work experience placements. She also completed independent travel training, giving her the confidence and skills to travel to and from college on her own.

As Betty's confidence and skills grew, she took the next step towards employment by joining the DFN Project SEARCH supported internship programme, with placements at the Queen’s Medical Centre and the University of Nottingham. After successfully completing the programme, she secured a paid role as a Retail Stores Assistant with NEXT, where she is thriving.

NEXT celebrated Betty's success by featuring her on its careers website and in a recruitment video. Her story shows what young people with SEND can achieve when they receive the right support, are given opportunities to grow and are determined to succeed.

On her achievements, Betty said: “I followed my dreams, and I love going to work. I enjoy being part of a team and helping customers. I’m proud of the skills I’ve learned.”

Betty’s Mum and Dad, said: “We are beyond proud of what Betty has achieved… allowing her to blossom into the amazing young 
woman she has become.”

DFN Project SEARCH is a one-year transition-to-work programme for young adults with a learning disability or autism spectrum conditions, or both.