Care UK Celebrates Success In Sen Career Development
Care UK has marked the first anniversary of its partnership with Ways into Work, supporting students with special educational needs to enter the care sector.
The first cohort of students – made up of five young people – spent time in two Berkshire homes: Bickerton House in Bracknell and Parsons Grange in Reading. During their year-long placements, as part of the Supported Work Placement initiative, they explored different roles within a care home including as resident companions, activities assistants and within kitchen teams.
With a successful year behind the programme, the next intake started their placements this September. In addition to Bickerton House and Parsons Grange, new students have also joined the teams at Winchcombe Place in Newbury and Larkland House, which is based in Ascot.
The success stories from the first year of the programme serve as an inspiration – with two of last year’s students having been offered full-time roles after the completion of their placements.
Israel, 21, has since become the new kitchen assistant, at Parsons Grange care home. He said: “It felt really good to finally be offered a job, as I’ve been trying to get into paid employment since 2023. I’m proud of myself and how hard I have worked to get here.”
Rozina Ali, the home’s manager, added:
“Israel was a fantastic addition to our catering team during his placement, and I know he will continue to be during his employment. His dedication, willingness to learn, and the pride he takes in his work have been clear to see. He’s formed great relationships with both residents and colleagues, and we’re thrilled to be able to offer him permanent employment.”
Christian Woolley, Care UK’s Regional Director for Berkshire, said:
“This programme has been a fantastic example of what’s possible when we open doors and offer real opportunities to young people with additional needs. The students we welcomed in Berkshire have shown just how much potential is out there when the right support is in place. I’m incredibly proud of what our homes have achieved, and I look forward to seeing this initiative grow across more of our regions in the future.”
Kirstie Hardyman, Employer Relationship Manager for Supported Internships, from Ways into Work, added: “We are proud to be partnering with Care UK. Their teams have created real opportunities for our young people with additional needs. We’ve seen first-hand how the right environment and support can help individuals thrive – not only gaining valuable experience but also building confidence and ultimately securing paid employment in an industry they are passionate about. This is exactly the kind of inclusive, forward-thinking approach we need more of in social care and beyond.”
