Case Study of a Finding Futures learner

Finding Futures is a specialist college in Bath & North East Somerset, providing work-based programmes and support for young people with SEND and Autism. 

Edward – intern of FF’s Project SEARCH supported internship programme

Before starting his supported internship, Ed’s family were uncertain about how he would move into meaningful employment due to limited opportunities and a lack of structured support pathways: “We didn’t know what route we were going to take to help him into work. We hoped he could achieve something meaningful, but we just didn’t know how it would work out.” 

Ed then joined Finding Futures, and when reflecting on that moment parents said “We hoped he could achieve something meaningful, but we just didn’t know how it would work out.” 

Through his time at the college, Ed gained experience in quality work placements across the Royal United Hospital and Nando’s; he was given structured, specialist support and challenge, and thanks to his hard work he progressed well across a number of important areas:

• Confidence:Increased self-belief in new environments 
• Flexibility:Greater ability to adapt to changes in routine and tasks 
• Maturity:Development of professional behaviour in the workplace 

• Social Skills: Improved interaction with a wider range of people 
• Independence: Travelling to and from work on public transport 
• Parents said that Ed had never been able to do this before, and it “has increased his confidence no end. It’s been a massive achievement.” 

As a result of his Project SEARCH internship, Ed has secured permanent paid employment at Nando’s – well done Ed!!

Parents highlighted that along with bringing financial benefits to Ed, employment also brings a strong sense of purpose and inclusion. 

• - “The self-worth, independence, confidence—it massively outweighs anything else.”
• - “They (Nando’s) want him there. He’s part of the team—and that’s more than we could have hoped for.”

They also explained the positive impact on this has had on family life, reducing uncertainty about the future and increasing confidence in what Edward can achieve – “Our stress levels are much lower now… we have a future to look forward to.” 

When asked to summarise their experience now, parents emphasized that it has been:

• The most beneficial experience Edward has undertaken
• A structured programme with a clear purpose
• A stepping stone to long-term independence

“We couldn’t have got to this point without this step.” 

 “A fantastic opportunity achieved”

*This information is taken from an interview that Ed’s parents recently took part in.*