UHL’s Project Search programme is celebrating national success after receiving two prestigious awards at this year’s Project Search annual conference. The event brought together programmes from across the UK to recognise excellence in supporting young people with learning disabilities or autism into meaningful, permanent employment.
The awards evening saw our Project Search programme, run in partnership with Gateway College, receiving the Gold Award for Transformational Outcomes, while our joint programme with Ellesmere College was recognised with a bronze award. The one-year supported internship initiative plays a vital role in giving interns the chance to learn and grow in a hospital environment, while also bringing fresh perspectives and valuable contributions to teams across the Trust.
To achieve Gold, programmes must achieve five national standards, including: 70% of interns gaining employment, 60% securing roles that meet the charity’s criteria, enrolling a minimum of eight interns, achieving at least an 87% completion rate, and ensuring interns earn the living wage or above.
Katy Middleton, Supported Internships Coordinator at Gateway College, said: “The support for our interns at UHL is amazing, and we fully appreciate the hard work and effort that goes into ensuring each of our young people has an experience like no other.”
It was a double header for UHL, as the programme with our partner accredited institute at Ellesmere College was also recognised with the Bronze Award for Commitment to Outcomes.
Renu Prinjha, Project Search Tutor at Ellesmere College, said: “This is an incredible recognition of the partnership at UHL, as it shows how diversity and inclusion is embraced within the Trust. The opportunities offered at UHL change young people’s lives, giving them a purpose and allowing them to make a positive contribution to society.”
Julie McCarthy, Head of Learning and Development, said: “At the heart of our partnership is a shared belief in what young people can achieve when the right organisations work together.
“Our collaborative approach aligns inclusive recruitment, education, workplace experience and specialist support to create meaningful opportunities and long‑term employment, without compromising organisational standards. This has a massive impact on the young people, their families and the Trust.”