The Down’s Syndrome Association’s WorkFit employment programme has had the pleasure of supporting Jack Vernon over the last 12 months.
Jack was 19 when he registered for support and was in college in North Wales. Jack and his family really wanted to try and incorporate some work into his week as his days in college were reducing. We felt that this was a great idea as many candidates we work with really do benefit from work experience at the earliest possible opportunity.
Jack developed his CV with support from his mother Caroline and we met several times to discuss work options. Jack had attended Sea Cadets for several years and loved it. He also spoke about his desire to wear a uniform with pride.
It was around the same time that WorkFit started discussions with North Wales Police. They wanted our support in developing a role at their Headquarters in North Wales for a WorkFit candidate. We were of course delighted to support.
The team felt that an opportunity in their supplies department may be suitable and WorkFit supported the development of the job description.
I discussed with Jack and his family the potential role and Jack was excited and a little nervous about the opportunity. We arranged a meeting at site for Jack to meet the team, have a site tour and to discuss the possibility.
We all met on site in March 2024 and the welcome and support from North Wales Police was exceptional. Jack and his mother Caroline felt at ease, and able to ask questions. The site tour, explanation of the role and the welcome from the team helped Jack make up his mind. He would go for it! Jack has not looked back since.
WorkFit training was delivered to the team, support was provided in tweaking the role and a start date for Jack was agreed.
Jack’s role involves taking deliveries, picking and packing items to be sent out and meeting and greeting customers who visit the supplies department, to name just a few of his tasks.
The support from North Wales Police at all levels has been first class and especially from Jack’s line manager Martin. Martin’s passion in developing this role and supporting Jack has helped make this a success.
Jack worked hard over the next six months and his work and dedication didn’t go unnoticed. In November of the same year Jack received the news that he had won a new starter award, the North Wales Police Initial Impact Award. At a grand ceremony at St Asaph Cathedral Jack received his award to a standing ovation.
Jack said ‘I like wearing my uniform and meeting different people‘.
Jack’s mother Caroline said: ‘We as a family are so proud of Jack and what he has achieved. He looks forward to going to work and is happy (and a little tired!) returning home. He has wonderful support at North Wales Police, we cannot thank them enough. He loves being part of the team and is so proud of his job.’
Martin Evans (Supplies Manager) said: ‘The Supplies team really enjoy working with Jack and constantly encourage him to push himself as each day we see Jack’s confidence grow.’
WorkFit is delighted for Jack and are very proud to have played a part in developing his opportunity at North Wales Police. Jack has worked so hard and shown real dedication. Well done Jack!
We thank North Wales Police for this great opportunity, their commitment to developing this role for Jack and their ongoing support.