WorkFit Candidate Joshua has enhanced his skills through a paid work experience placement at Big Yellow Self Storage, with the support of WorkFit.
The Down’s Syndrome Association’s WorkFit employment programme has been working with the Big Yellow Self Storage company since 2021. To date, the partnership has generated meaningful opportunities for WorkFit candidates in Maidenhead, Swindon and Cardiff.
Joshua’s journey
Joshua started work as a General Assistant in July 2022 and he has really fitted in with the great team in Cardiff and made a promising start. Joshua is a hard worker and loves being part of the team.
Joshua said “It has been easy to start work here as the team have been very supportive and spent time showing me how to do my job properly. All the team have been very welcoming.”
Joshua left college in June and both him and his family felt it was important to gain some work experience and keep Joshua focused. Nicki, Joshua’s aunt said “Josh is really enjoying working with the team at Big Yellow. They have been so supportive of him, and we have noticed a big improvement in his confidence and self-esteem since he started working there.”
Working in a varied and meaningful role
Joshua has a range of tasks at Big Yellow including:
• Health and Safety checks daily
• Ensuring the premises are clean and tidy and safe for customers
• Taking deliveries and ensuring the stock displays and stock room are replenished
• Welcoming Big Yellow customers
Marcus Hacker the Big Yellow Manager in Cardiff said “Josh has been a pleasure to work with and has really settled into the role, taking ownership of some key tasks. Josh works diligently all shift with a smile and good humour. He is getting on well with all members of the team & interacts with several regular customers who have also got to know him.”
Following a successful initial placement, Joshua’s contract has now been extended and he continues to enjoy his work there, recently having celebrated his 1 year work anniversary! Congratulations Josh!
Joshua has received excellent support from The Big Yellow Self Storage company, and we look forward to placing more great candidates across their stores in England and Wales. A big thank you to Big Yellow for their continued dedication to our WorkFit programme.
To find out more about WorkFit and how we support people who have Down’s Syndrome to access meaningful work opportunities that can benefit the rest of their lives, please contact the team on 0333 12 12 300 or email us on dsworkfit@downs-syndrome.org.uk For more information visit the WorkFit website: www.dsworkfit.org.uk