Empowering Success
Published by David Lewis School and David Lewis College on Friday 2nd of February 2024
Individuals with Complex Needs Triumph at Bruntwood! Alderley Park’s Work Experience Programme
In partnership with Bruntwood SciTech, we wanted to share with you the most recent success of an inspiring 10 week Work Experience Programme that champions the capabilities of individuals we support. Through this programme, students and residents supported by David Lewis have stepped into real jobs, immersing themselves in an environment that doesn't just accommodate but celebrates diverse talents.
David Lewis, a leading charity providing comprehensive support for individuals with complex needs in Cheshire, has partnered with Bruntwood SciTech, the UK’s largest property platform serving the innovation economy, to create an impactful work experience programme at Alderley Park. This collaboration demonstrates the organisations’ commitment to empowering individuals with diverse needs and fostering inclusive work environments.
The work experience programme aimed to offer students and residents supported by David Lewis an opportunity to gain valuable experience and enhance their skills.
Participants had the chance to work in various job roles tailored to their interests and abilities, such as administrative tasks, reception duties, deliveries and working in the gardens. This hands-on experience provided participants with a sense of belonging and contributed to their personal and professional development.
Jessica Crowder, ESG Coordinator, from Bruntwood SciTech said “Working in partnership with David Lewis has been an incredible opportunity for our company to give back to the community in a meaningful way. Part of our strategy is to be a great place to work, with a focus on inclusion and diversity.”
John Heritage, Chief Executive of David Lewis, expressed his satisfaction with the initiative’s success: “We are delighted to have collaborated with Bruntwood SciTech and Sodexo on this work experience initiative.
“Through this programme, participants from David Lewis have gained valuable skills and a greater sense of personal achievement. We are committed to building on this success and developing more partnerships and work experience opportunities for individuals with diverse needs.
“I would like to thank colleagues at Bruntwood SciTech and Sodexo for their support as well as Christine Green who is volunteering her time at David Lewis to support us in building and developing relationships with employers like Bruntwood SciTech, and their shareholders Bruntwood “
One of the key outcomes of the programme was the significant impact on participants’ confidence and communication abilities. Engaging in a team environment within a professional setting allowed students and residents to build self-assurance and develop essential workplace skills. The positive feedback from participants highlighted the transformative nature of the work experience, boosting their sense of accomplishment and encouraging further personal growth.
David Robins, Registered Manager from David Lewis commented “We have witnessed a remarkable transformation in the individuals we support, as they have developed an undeniable sense of confidence and belonging. Our approach has allowed them to embrace new opportunities and achieve personal and professional growth like never before. We are proud to play a role in their journey and are dedicated to continuing to foster their empowerment and well-being.”
The collaboration between David Lewis and Bruntwood SciTech demonstrates their joint commitment to investing in individuals with diverse needs and creating inclusive work environments. Any businesses who are looking to create work experience programmes or jobs for people with complex needs please contact David Lewis at enquries@davidlewis.org.uk to find out how you can get involved in future projects.
