Emily's project SEARCH story

Emily had a placement at Nottingham City Hospital for one year as part of Project SEARCH with Nottingham College. Before that, she studied work skills at Derby College for one year and catering at Nottingham College for two years. As a result of her continuous hard work and support from her colleagues, Emily gained permanent paid employment as a Food Service Assistant at the hospital. She has now been working in this job for just over a year.

Emily’s parents say they are both pleased for her. They feel happy that she is working in a safe and secure environment. Emily said:

Although I was fairly outgoing, I have always lacked confidence in myself, but the supported internship has enabled me to build my confidence by meeting and working with lots of different people. The internship allowed me to get to see what the hospital was all about and I got a hands-on training which was not just classroom based. I was allowed to shadow other staff members and I really enjoyed my year at the hospital, everyone was so helpful. I have a mentor which is great so I can ask her about things if I need to. Whilst working within the hospital I have been able to use the skills I learnt at college, gain new skills and have now been offered a permanent job with the NHS.  I have thoroughly loved every minute working at the hospital and always feel safe and supported.”

Project Search offers one-year internship programmes for over 18s based at Queen’s Medical Centre, City Hospital and Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust. Young people can apply through Nottingham College or West Notts College.