Joe and James are WorkFit candidates at the Royal Mail.
They are both currently working at a depot in Poole, Dorset.
Late Shift Manager, Steven Grout reached out to WorkFit after hearing an interview on Radio 4 about the supported employment programme. Steven felt that there were work opportunities available during the late shift at the depot.
After the dedicated WorkFit Officer consulted Steven to consider suitable tasks, the team received bespoke WorkFit Employer Training. James then went to meet the team and immediately made an impression on his work buddy Cameron as they bonded over a shared love of Pot Noodles!
James
James successfully completed a trial period and was soon offered a permanent paid role. He works one shift a week and his role consists of opening mail bags and making sure the letters are put into the correct areas for 1st class, 2nd class and parcels. Using visual prompts for support initially, James soon picked up the pace, pointing out any errors.
Steven told us: ‘James is incredibly proud to wear his uniform and is very passionate about getting his job done well.’
James told us: ‘I love it because I get paid. I like to listen to my boss and my supervisor because they help me do my job.’
Joe
Following on from James’ success, Steven then reached out to offer another opportunity to a candidate who has Down’s syndrome on a different day of the week. Joe was looking for work and he thought he would like to try the role and see if it would be a good fit for him. After a couple of shifts, it was clear that Joe had an interest and an aptitude, and he was offered the role on a permanent basis.
Steve told us: ’Joe has settled into his role with ease. Joe is also passionate about his work and is proud to complete his shift, we even get a cheer sometimes when all of his work is done’.
James and Joe complete the same work as other Operational Postal Grade workers and Steven says ‘the work they do is important and valued and I couldn’t be happier, having them as part of the team.’
WorkFit buddies play a vital role in fully integrating WorkFit colleagues into the wider team whilst offering a point of contact for any queries or support needs.
Steven has acknowledged the commitment Cameron has to his role as a workplace buddy and mentor. He states that Cameron has been instrumental in making James and Joe feel welcome, valued and supported. Not only does he motivate them and celebrate their progress, but he thoroughly enjoys their company as work colleagues.
With the support of the team at Royal Mail, the young men have become successful members of the team. They have taken advantage of the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and abilities and find it fulfilling to go to work and earn a wage.
Joe says: ‘It’s a happy place and I like the work I do. I am very proud of myself.’
More info
To find out more about WorkFit and how we support people who have Down’s syndrome to access meaningful work opportunities that can benefit all areas of their lives, please contact the team on 0333 1212 300 or email us at dsworkfit@downs-syndrome.org.uk.