SURF Awards Winner:
Removing Barriers to Employabilty

What is the aim of the project?

To support young people with diverse additional needs into meaningful employment.

Where is it taking place?

Based at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.

What has been achieved?

In a region with high unemployment rates and a significant population of individuals with learning disabilities, this partnership is delivering a vital employability service which is addressing critical local needs. What distinguishes this project is its innovative delivery model, centred around strong employer connections. Through this real focus on understanding joint needs, and the needs of the learners, the team have created a hugely successful partnership that addresses areas of key skills shortage within NHS Tayside, whilst transforming the lives of the learners and their families in ways they could never have imagined possible.

For these young people, the dream of gaining meaningful employment was simply out of reach. The Dundee and Angus regions have some of the highest rates of people living with disabilities, as well as elevated poverty and youth unemployment levels. In response, Dundee and Angus College, and its partners, are dedicated to breaking down barriers and providing a structured, supportive pathway to meaningful employment. This commitment aims to create a more inclusive and skilled workforce in the region.

The course is tailored to meet the unique needs of each intern, emphasising their strengths and abilities. Interns choose three work placements aligned with their skills and interests, ensuring a personalised experience. The DFN Project SEARCH team, consisting of a Job Coach and Lecturer, provides ongoing guidance throughout the year. Practical skills learned during placements are reinforced through academic learning, creating a comprehensive development process. Support is highly individualised, with one-on-one training provided until the intern can perform their job independently. As interns gain confidence, staff gradually step back, allowing them to take full ownership of their roles. Each intern also has a department mentor who offers continuous support and guidance.

The DFN Project SEARCH programme has profoundly impacted lives and reshaped perceptions of disability and neurodiversity through its holistic approach. Interns exhibit remarkable determination to overcome barriers and build strong relationships with colleagues. Their commitment has sparked influential conversations with senior management, contributing to a cultural shift within NHS Tayside.

Who is running it?

A partnership between Dundee and Angus College, Dundee Health and Social Care, and NHS Tayside.

Why did the judging panel like it?

The judges were impressed with the approach taken to support young people with complex barriers to employment. Partnership working is key to the success of this programme and was demonstrated by the attendance, at the visit, of ten colleagues from partner organisations, as well as five beneficiaries. The judges particularly enjoyed the opportunity to visit the young interns in their working environment within Ninewells Hospital and to hear directly from department managers about how beneficial it is to them to be able to support an intern.

There is a huge amount of support throughout the 36 week programme as well as an extensive aftercare period to ensure sustainability. An additional benefit of the programme has been a wider recognition of the needs of employees with disabilities, not just those within Project SEARCH. These include a job explanation pack for each department and the establishment of an EDI working group.