From isolation to inclusion: Paul's journey to paid employment

Paul sought assistance from the Disability Employment Advisor at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It was here that Paul was introduced to voluntary work at FoodCycle, a charity dedicated to serving meals to those in need using surplus food. This experience provided Paul with invaluable work experience and ignited his passion for cooking, opening new possibilities for his future.

Encouraged by his positive experience at FoodCycle, Paul expressed his desire to pursue paid employment in a kitchen environment.  The local Job Centre referred Paul to ECL’s Inclusive Employment team, who guided him through the process of finding job opportunities and supported him throughout the application and interview stages.

In January 2024, Paul's determination and perseverance bore fruit when he was offered a position as a Midday Assistant at a primary school in Chelmsford, working 11.30 am to 1.45 pm three days a week. This milestone began a new chapter in Paul's life, filled with excitement and opportunity.

The transition into his new role was supported by the ECL Inclusive Employment coaching team, who accompanied Paul during his early shifts and provided travel training to ensure he could walk to work safely and independently.

Reflecting on his experience, Job Coach Katie Holt noted his swift adaptation to his role: “Paul didn’t need us for long. He was comfortable with his route to work within four days of travel training, and as for doing the job itself, he didn’t need any intervention from us at all. We were just there as a security blanket until he was fully confident.”

Paul's enthusiasm and dedication at the school quickly endeared him to staff and students alike. His genuine enjoyment of his work, from assisting with lunch preparations to engaging with the learners, shines through in his daily interactions. The warmth and support he received from his colleagues in the school kitchen further contributed to his sense of belonging and fulfillment in his role.

To say that Paul is passionate about his job is an understatement.  Paul said: “I am in early every day and help with the preparations for lunch; I enjoy collecting the cutlery when the children finish eating as it gives me a chance to say hello to the young people, some of them are cheeky, but I don’t mind at all!”

The job is going so well the school made Paul’s original temporary contract a permanent one, and then in July 2024 they added an extra day to his working week, which he is delighted about!

Paul is grateful that there is always someone in the ECL Inclusive Employment team he can contact should he need to. He said: “I couldn’t have got this job without ECL; I’d be lost without them.”

Finding employment has transformed Paul’s life; he has greater confidence and, importantly, a huge increase in independence. Paul’s newly found self-assurance has positively impacted other areas of his life; he is successfully living alone, still volunteering at FoodCycle one day a week, and enjoying a stronger relationship with his extended family.

Paul is undoubtedly enjoying a full and happy life.