DFN Project SEARCH

There are over 1 million young people in the UK with learning disabilities and less than 6% get into paid employment. We at DFN Project SEARCH aim to buck this trend and provide real-life work experience, combined with training in employability and independent-living skills, for young people with learning disabilities and autism. Our programme equips these individuals with the correct tools and experiences to become a success in life. Our interns remain on roll with their school or college, but are based in a host business. Here the interns participate in three department rotations throughout the year, receiving 800 hours of skills acquisition, while growing in confidence and competence. Helping them develop their career paths is a support and learning network that consists of an onsite teacher and a full-time employment specialist, plus the interns family who create a joined-up learning environment and employment goal. Together the team deliver the support the intern needs...