Project SEARCH in the Borders

Borders College, NHS Borders, and Scottish Borders Council (SBC) worked together to introduce Project SEARCH in the Borders back in 2016. Since then the program has gone from strength to strength. This week marked the completion of the program for our second intake of interns. To celebrate the occasion a graduation ceremony was held on Tuesday 12th June at the Borders College Scottish Borders Campus.
Pictured are the Project SEARCH 2018 graduates.

During the course of the one year program, eight interns completed work experience rotations in various settings in the Borders General Hospital and Community Hospitals including Laundry, General Services and Medical Records. Through this internship our interns have acquired competitive, transferable and marketable job skills as well as gained independence, confidence, and self-esteem.

During the ceremony the interns did something a little different and chose to give certificates and thanks to their mentors in recognition of the support and encouragement they gave during rotations. Comments about mentors included;
“My mentor made me feel very welcome in my rotation and helped me to feel like part of the team.”

“Our mentor has always been there for us, always there if we need any help with anything in the ward. She is always very approachable and good fun.”

“Thank you for being patient with me and showing me how to do a good job.”

Rob McCulloch-Graham, Chief Officer Health and Social Care (NHS Borders), said:

“A big congratulations must go to our interns who have successfully completed their internships. We have thoroughly enjoyed having them work with us and I am thrilled that they have equally enjoyed their experience with us.

“Young people with a learning disability face many barriers to employment and Project Search has been highly successful in being able to deliver opportunities throughout Scotland. It is fantastic that we are able to offer a series of good quality internships to young Borderers.”

For more information about Project SEARCH, contact Joan Cairney at Borders College on 08700 50 51 52.