WorkFit is the Down’s Syndrome Association’s employment programme, connecting employers with job seekers who have Down’s syndrome. Through supported opportunities, individuals gain confidence, independence, and valuable experience, all while meeting new people and building their social networks.
Roy, WorkFit Liaison Officer for the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group has been working with Harriet, Volunteer Manager at ‘Order of St Johns Trust Care Trust (OSJCT) to best match WorkFit candidates with the right opportunities in the Trusts care homes across Wiltshire.
So far candidates have been matched with work opportunities in four Wiltshire care homes and hopefully this is only the start.
Harriet says: ‘It’s been amazing working with Roy and our fantastic candidates from the Workfit Programme. They’ve already made an impact on the home teams they support, and we’ve already learned so much about how to best support people with Down’s syndrome. While we’ve offered supported volunteering internships before, WorkFit has helped us develop a more informed approach to ensure the tailored placement is a success. We’re excited to expand the programme further across our South division and beyond, it’s a win for the volunteers, our teams, and most importantly, our residents.’
Roy commented: ‘The Order of St John Care Trust’ are one of the first care home providers in Wiltshire to support our WorkFit Employment Programme. We are already seeing how much our WorkFit candidates are gaining from the experience. They’re very quickly becoming valued members of the care home teams, working with housekeeping and kitchen staff, and building skills that will help them on their career paths. One of our first WorkFit candidates, Gemma joined the housekeeping team at OSJCT Chippenham care home and is thriving in her role.’
Gemma says: ‘My role at Seymour House makes me feel good. It has given me more independence. I really enjoy working with Jaz and the team and meeting the residents.’
Her work buddy, Jaz, says: ‘I’m really enjoy being Gemma’s work buddy – she’s fun, eager to learn, and is always happy to help. Honestly, I think I’m learning just as much from her as she is from me! She’s a brilliant addition to the team.’