Project Search interns praised by Serco at Derriford Hospital

Three interns have been praised for their work at Derriford Hospital as part of an award-winning scheme that helps young adults with learning disabilities find jobs.

Peter Fletcher, 21, in stores, Oliver Jago, 20, in the restaurant, and Robert Manktelow, 21, in food stores, have all been commended for their dedication and willingness to work hard.

All three joined Serco as part of Project Search, a partnership between Derriford Hospital, Serco, City College Plymouth and Pluss. The organisations work closely together to find people work experience placements to help them develop job skills, lead fuller lives and become more independent.

Nick Pugh, Serco partnership director, said: "We have had many interns from Project Search and they, including Peter, Oliver and Robert, are among the best and most reliable people we have. It's an excellent programme and we are proud to be part of it."

Apart from learning about working in stores, delivering stock, or working in the restaurant, the three men have also developed their self-confidence and social skills. They have become much more independent, including learning which buses to take, what times to get to work and how to find their way around the hospital.

The three men have one more term to go before graduating in May and are looking forward to finding full-time positions in Plymouth after that.

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