Edward

I began my first placement in mattress portering. I worked with Nigel and Kofi. They were both my mentors. Kofi was previously an intern, he is a graduate of the project now and mentored me – showing me the ropes and explaining the job. Nigel always believed in me and told the Project SEARCH team how perfect he thought I was for the porter roles.

Before I knew it, after just being in placement 8 weeks, I was offered a full time portering role with ISS. Amazingly, the date I was offered the job fell exactly one year after being hospitalised, before being diagnosed with Diabetes.

I couldn’t believe how quickly I was offered a job, I jumped at the chance! I felt so proud of myself and couldn’t wait to tell my family.

I had support to understand and sign my new contract and began work after a short induction course.

I have now been in the job over three months. I still see the team on site and my peer group a lot. Since gaining employment, I have been added to the Alumni group and we meet up socially sometimes. It is nice to see people that have been involved with the project.

I often check-in with Jo and Phil and pop to see the group sometimes in class if I can.

I am hoping to save money in the next few years and I really want to learn to drive. The idea of booking a holiday, buying a car and moving out all feel like big moments I am looking forward to.

Maybe one day I will be a mentor for an intern just like me.