Case Study: JD’s Work Experience Journey with Foundations

Foundation4work is our completely free initiative in Gateshead, delivering personalised support for individuals needing help with job seeking, CV writing, interview readiness, and other job search challenges. The programme also provides practical experience in our retail and warehouse setting, and out on the road helping to deliver and collect furniture with our drivers. It's a great way to develop the skills and confidence employers are looking for.

What's more, every participant receives free work boots, personal protective equipment (PPE), and travel expenses to and from our charity.

In this blog, we share how Foundation4Work helped JD (not his real name) to gain work experience and the skills he needs to move closer towards getting the career he wants in the future.

Background

JD was referred to Foundations4work (F4W) by the NHS Project Choice college, which supports individuals with learning difficulties.

The NHSPC coordinator introduced JD to the F4W team, and after an initial conversation about the programme, it was clear that JD was eager to broaden his work experience in a supportive environment.

Challenges and Needs

JD needed hands-on experience in a real working environment. Both JD and his support worker shared that he needed to understand how a charity like ours operates and learn practical work skills that would help him after finishing college. Additionally, JD sought specific assistance in job-seeking skills, such as navigating job search websites and creating an up-to-date CV.

Programme Participation

At F4W, JD received one-on-one mentoring and training across various activities. His tasks included assisting with deliveries and collections of furniture with our drivers and arranging the charity’s furniture showrooms, which allowed him to develop practical skills. JD was proactive and asked to attend the programme four days per week, as he thoroughly enjoyed the social environment and the work itself. (The minimum requirement for the programme is one day per week.)

Support and Development

While JD continued to receive support from the NHS Project Choice College, F4W provided additional guidance in developing his job-hunting abilities. With help from F4W staff, JD created an updated CV, researched different job-seeking websites, and gained valuable experience as part of the van crew and in warehouse operations.

Outcomes and Impact

JD was commended by the F4W team for his diligent work ethic and proactive nature. He quickly became known for completing tasks independently and having a helpful attitude, which grew as he gained confidence in his role.

The skills and experience JD acquired at F4W greatly contributed to his personal development. He went on to enrol in college full-time, where he is now working towards gaining essential skills and further qualifications. JD expressed that he thoroughly enjoyed his time at F4W and has plans to return as a volunteer if his college schedule allows.

Looking Forward

JD is feeling optimistic about his future. By gaining job-hunting skills and knowing how to update his CV, he already anticipates being thoroughly equipped to seek secure a job in the future.

To find out more about volunteering and employment support in Gateshead, call the team on 0191 477 8337 or visit the Foundation4Work website.