Ben’s Story
Ben was diagnosed as having autism and joined Pure Innovations through the pilot for the Supported Internships. Ben successfully completed the Internship and gained twelve months employment with Laing O’Rourke, in Manchester city centre, through the Dragon’s Den event.
"Without doubt, offering Ben a position at the Bridgewater Hospital has been the most rewarding decision I have made, by far! "
Ben gained a customised data entry role at sixteen hours a week. Using the skills he acquired from the Supported Traineeship, and the job training Ben received from his Employment Officer, he excelled in the role. Ben received natural support from his colleagues and manager as well as Ben becoming accustomed to work life.
After the 12 months were up Ben gained a customised Admin Assistant role at Bridgewater Hospital, Manchester. Again Ben received in work support from his Employment Officer into the role as well as on the job training. Ben has now become settled in the role, integrated as a well known member of the staffing team and has been given the opportunity to develop his role further by taking on other duties.
Lesley Taylor, Executive Director, Bridgewater Hospital tells us about Ben
Without doubt, offering Ben a position at the Bridgewater Hospital has been the most rewarding decision I have made, by far!
Initially Ben was supported by Hannah, his Employment Officer from Pure Innovations. Hannah was Ben’s shadow for the first few weeks and supported him whilst he learnt all aspects of the role. As Ben gained confidence, Hannah gradually reduced the time she spent with Ben until he was working completely independently, with confidence. This approach was perfect for us as a business as additional resource was not required for Ben’s induction into the role.
Ben’s main role is to collect and deliver post to and from all hospital departments and ensure it is sorted, franked and ready for collection at the appointed time. This role allows Ben to interact with all members of staff, including Consultants. He communicates effectively with everybody and we all look forward to Ben’s visit. If you are having a challenging day Ben’s sunny disposition is guaranteed to lift your spirits.
Ben has the added responsibility of testing the fire alarm every Tuesday morning at 11am and actions this on the dot! The post and the fire testing are 2 elements of the business I have 100% confidence in as Ben executes these tasks perfectly. The vast majority of the time Ben works without supervision knowing that there is somebody available to give him a little extra support on the rare occasion it is needed and of course, Pure Innovations are just at the end of the telephone if needed.
Ben is an absolute joy to have around. He is a breath of fresh air who has transformed our workplace.
I would thoroughly recommend any employer who is considering offering a placement to go for it. If you are lucky enough to secure somebody as delightful as Ben, I promise you, you will never look back.