Project SEARCH now recruiting

Forth Valley College’s successful DFN Project SEARCH programme has started recruiting once again for young people with Additional Support Needs (ASN), to become interns at the Royal Forth Valley Hospital, to give them invaluable employability skills and support them in finding sustainable employment.

A partnership between Forth Valley College, Falkirk Council Employment and Training Unit, Serco, NHS Forth Valley and Skills Development Scotland, the initiative takes young interns aged between 18-24 from the Falkirk Council area, and supports them to take part in placements across the hospital in a variety of roles provided by Serco and the NHS.  

Throughout the year long programme, interns are timetabled Monday to Friday 9am-4pm and, depending on their skills and suitability, take part in many opportunities, including; housekeeping; domestic services catering, stores, portering, reception and Admin, and mail room. The interns also complete food hygiene and manual handling certificates.

Interns receive individualised mentorship, support and training from an onsite job coach, and follow a curriculum of employability and personal development delivered by Forth Valley College. Employment opportunities are discussed throughout the year with one-to-one support and guidance from Falkirk Employment and Training Unit with the aim to find sustainable employment for each young person.

Benefits

1. Skill Development: Participants gain transferable skills like teamwork, communication, and time management, enhancing their employability.   
2. Increased Confidence: Engagement in a hospital setting boosts self-esteem as students navigate challenges and receive positive feedback.   
3. Social Inclusion: The program promotes social interaction, reducing isolation and fostering meaningful friendships.   
4. Career Exploration: Students explore various healthcare roles, gaining insights into potential career pathways.
5. Support Network: Ongoing guidance from buddies, lecturers, and job coaches helps students navigate their professional and personal journeys.     
6. Real-World Experience: Internships teach professional etiquette, responsibility, and accountability, facilitating successful transitions to future employment.

Lucy Hawkins, Curriculum Manager in FVC’s Department of Care, Sport, Business and Communities, said: “The DFN Project SEARCH at Forth Valley Royal Hospital significantly benefits ASN students, equipping them with essential skills, enhancing their confidence, and providing meaningful work experiences. This collaboration between educational institutions and healthcare providers promotes inclusivity in the workforce and we want to hear from as many young people who feel they might qualify as an intern as possible. Get in in touch and find out more as soon as you can.”

For more information please contact FVC on 01324 403000 visit https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk Or e-mail csbc@forthvalley.ac.uk for more information.