Brandon Jones – A journey to employment and independence
At just 20 years old, Brandon Jones has achieved two major milestones—securing paid employment and moving into independent living. Diagnosed with autism, Brandon was eager to find a job but lacked the confidence and experience to navigate the job market on his own. Thanks to the support of ECL’s Inclusive employment team, he is now thriving in his new warehouse role at CareCo.
After leaving college, Brandon volunteered at a charity shop in Halstead to gain valuable work experience. He knew he wanted a paid job but wasn’t sure how to go about it. His autism made him anxious about job applications and interviews, and he worried that employers wouldn’t give him a chance. Fortunately, his mother, who works in the Sensory team at ECL, knew about ECL’s Inclusive Employment service and encouraged him to contact them.
Inclusive Employment Consultant Peter Curry met with Brandon to conduct a vocational profile, helping him identify the types of jobs that suited his interests and skills. Brandon expressed that he wouldn’t feel comfortable handling money or operating tills but was interested in working behind the scenes in a kitchen, warehouse, or garden centre.
At a careers fair, Inclusive Employment Job Broker Jenny Price connected with CareCo, a leading retailer of mobility equipment. CareCo was keen to expand its inclusive employment practices, and Jenny saw an opportunity for Brandon. With Pete’s support, Brandon applied for a warehouse role and was invited for an interview.
Although nervous about the interview, Brandon prepared with Pete’s guidance, and both Pete and Jenny accompanied him at the interview. “I still answered all the questions myself,” Brandon said, “but having their familiar faces there made me feel more confident.” His preparation paid off, and he was delighted to be offered the job.
At the same time as securing his new job, Brandon was also getting ready to move out of his family home into supported living. Recognising the significance of this transition, CareCo agreed to delay his start date by a month, allowing him time to settle into his new home before beginning work.
To ensure a smooth start, Pete provided job coaching during Brandon’s first month, supporting him in learning his new role and helping him travel independently by bus. Brandon quickly adapted to his role, completing all his mandatory training and taking on additional voluntary learning covering 30 different subjects. He has been trained to use pallet trucks and ladders safely and is now fulfilling orders, with plans to learn the packaging process next.
Brandon’s colleagues have been incredibly welcoming, creating a supportive and friendly environment where he feels comfortable. Now requiring minimal coaching, Brandon is supported by Inclusive Employment Sustainment Officer, Patrick Loe, who checks in periodically to ensure everything is going well for him and his employer.
Brandon is thriving in his new role and has ambitions to progress. He is particularly interested in engineering and hopes to one day work in CareCo’s workshop, assembling mobility equipment. His newfound confidence has also inspired him to take the next step—learning to drive.
Reflecting on his journey, Brandon feels proud of what he has achieved.
I feel very good about my job. I’m proud of what I’ve done. Get ECL to help; they’ve been brilliant for me.
Brandon’s story demonstrates how the right support and opportunities can make a real difference to a person with autism. Thanks to ECL’s Inclusive Employment team and CareCo’s commitment to inclusivity, Brandon has secured paid work, grown in confidence, and is now looking forward to a promising and independent future.