Local Supported Employment (LSE) is new programme that is already making a huge difference to individuals with learning disabilities and autism, who are looking for paid employment.
The programme is part of Opportunity Sheffield, the employment and skills service at Sheffield City Council.
Not only do our LSE Job Coaches help individuals overcome barriers to employment, but they also support them throughout their journey once they have found permanent employment.
Our Sheffield Job Coaches are Richard Perry and Jenat Shah, who liaise with both employers and candidates in Sheffield.
So far, the programme has helped 4 individuals into work, with a further 2 awaiting start dates and another 2 awaiting interviews.
Below is a recent case study, about one of the individuals they have helped:
S is a 26-year-old male with Autism. He struggles with anxiety and communication. He does not initiate conversation and most of his replies are only one word. Once a relationship is established, he is friendly and enthusiastic.
He previously worked on a voluntary basis at a games shop for nine months, but this ended abruptly when the owner decided to move to an online platform. This was difficult for S, and he became somewhat withdrawn.
S agreed to join the Supported Employment programme in December. The process of building a Vocational Profile began, in addition to gaining his trust. S was focused on working in a games shop. His major hobbies include gaming and Warhammer. He displays patience and attention to detail in these hobbies.
In mid-January, the Job Coaches engaged employers to seek a suitable opportunity for S. An introductory meeting was arranged between store manager, S and the Job Coach. It transpired that one of the staff had worked with S at his previous placement, which was helpful. A supported work trial was arranged, and things went very well.
During the follow up meeting with the employer, it was agreed for a placement to be started on 22nd February for Wednesday afternoons. The understanding was that this would lead to a paid position once one became available.
Support was given by the Job Coach but as S showed progress, this soon changed to just checking in on him one or two times a day whilst on his placement. There was a concern that S would be unable to perform all the “required” tasks of the role, primarily, explaining games to customers. However, S was happy to complete other tasks which free up the time of other staff.
The feedback from staff, family and carers about S is very positive. They say he has a “smile on his face”, “a sense of purpose and achievement” and “looks forward to his week”. The person with whom S worked with at his previous placement said he “had never known S communicate so much” and “he has come on leaps and bounds”.
A plan has been devised with the employer for continued support as S becomes employed and to extend his hours, days and duties, as required. S is expected to start a permanent role at this workplace in July 2023.
If you or someone you know has autism or a learning disability and would like help getting into work, contact Richard on richard.perry@sheffield.gov.uk or Jenat on jenat.shah@sheffield.gov.uk.
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