Tafadzwa’s Supported Internship

Taff’s first work placement with Active Tameside was in the Soft Play arena, and it quickly became apparent to his co-workers that he was a bright young man who could adapt to the tasks at hand.

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"We never expected that he could come this far and actually get a paid job; this is really fantastic for him."
- Tafadzwa's Dad

Before starting a Supported Internship at Active Tameside Medlock, Tafadzwa felt very isolated; he would sit alone in his room at home, listening to music and not getting involved in social or family activities.

He had worked hard at his studies, completing educational courses, but after each one he was left feeling adrift and had to be guided into new activities or studies by his parents.

Mum says:

“Previously, Tafadzwa’s Dad and I have always had to try and find something for him to do next.”

Taff’s first work placement with Active Tameside was in the Soft Play arena, and it quickly became apparent to his co-workers that he was a bright young man who could adapt to the tasks at hand. His role developed and became more varied as he was asked to complete additional tasks to support the wider team at Medlock.

Soon he was also working in the Gymnasium and performing maintenance checks in the new facilities to make sure they were left in good order for the next set of users.

Perhaps most importantly Tafadzwa became a well liked member of the team at Medlock, working alongside others and learning to be relied upon, as well as relying on others.

Dad says:

“Tafadzwa is far more independent now; he’s acting responsibly. He’s planning what he needs to do with his time all on his own, without being prompted or reminded.”

As he developed so well in his roles at Medlock, Taff was offered the opportunity to apply for a role at another of Active Tameside’s facilities, at Oxford Park. Using transferable skills learned during his Supported Internship, Taff successfully undertook a working interview and was offered paid employment as a Leisure Assistant!

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The Management Staff at Oxford Park have lots to say about Taff since he joined their team:
“He’s efficient, methodical and a real part of our Leisure team. A pleasant, helpful and bright young man, his conversations with colleagues are always full of facts and surprises!Having Taff here has contributed to the sense of community spirit at Oxford Park Community Sports Centre. He’s a real credit to his efforts, and an asset to our team.”

Talking about how it feels to be in paid work, Taff says:

“I’m very happy to have paid work, and I want to make sure I am always on time! I’m proud of myself and now that I’m earning money I can buy clothes for myself, but also help Mum & Dad with the bills.”

Mum & Dad take pride in Tafadzwa’s achievements, new found independence and dedication:

“We both thought that when Tafadzwa completed his Supported Internship we would have to find him something to do next; another course or such. We never expected that he could come this far and actually get a paid job; this is really fantastic for him.”

We’d like to thank our partners at Tameside Council, Tameside College and Active Tameside for making life-changing opportunities like this a reality.