A GRADUATE from an East Ayrshire project has celebrated success by finding a job.

Project SEARCH, is a key part of the People Strategy Employability Programme focussed on supporting young people with learning disabilities and autism spectrum conditions to gain valuable employment skills, has seen the latest group of East Ayrshire interns graduate.

Craig Shedden, a graduate of the 2018/19 Project SEARCH cohort, has secured permanent part-time employment as a Domestic Assistant based in University Hospital Crosshouse.

Over the last year, Craig completed three ten-week long rotations in different areas of University Hospital Crosshouse, to gain practical work experience while building his confidence, self-esteem and independence.

Current Manager, Jacqueline Armstrong, Hotel Services Manager said: “Craig gained experience working within several areas of domestic services while taking part in Project SEARCH. This helped to give him the knowledge and skills to apply for and be successful in securing a permanent post with us.

“We are delighted to see Craig progress to part-time employment within the team. We would like to say a huge well done to Craig and wish him every success in his new role.”

This is the 7th year of operation of this excellent programme focussed on helping 17 to 24 year olds in East Ayrshire who have learning difficulties and/or are on the autistic spectrum, to build confidence and employment.