Ewan* has always been keen to find and retain work. He needs some support in the workplace: clear and direct instructions; supervision when learning new tasks; and help with the social side of being at work.
Ewan completed the work preparation programme at Prospects. Here, among other things, he looked at career choices that were best-suited to his skills (Ewan decided that he would like to work in horticulture), and secured a voluntary placement at his local Homebase, where he worked in the garden centre three days a week for six weeks.
After finishing his placement at Homebase, Ewan joined Prospects' Brighter Horizons programme, which helps people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to secure long-term voluntary work.
While on the Brighter Horizons programme, Ewan took up a one-day-per-week placement at Osterley Park, which is managed by the National Trust. Beforehand, we spent time working on Ewan's interview technique - as he had to meet Osterley Park's head gardener before starting his placement - and on communication and developing good working relationships.
Ewan settled in very quickly at Osterley Park and does not need a high degree of support from Prospects staff. The head gardener has commented on Ewan's excellent time-keeping and attendance; his hard work; and the fact that he communicates with his colleagues effectively.
Ewan continues to come into Prospects regularly. We talk about the work he has been doing at Osterley Park and the new skills he has learnt. It is obvious that Ewan has gained a lot in confidence. He is currently completing an application form for college, where he wants to study horticulture.
*Not his real name.