Congratulations to our eight Project SEARCH interns who have now successfully graduated from the Supported Internship Programme.

The eight Runshaw College students joined us through The DFN Project SEARCH Supported Internship Programme last September. They each completed three rotations across various departments within the Group, including Digital Services, Community Involvement, Property Services and Facilities.

Their achievements were honoured at The Supported Internship Programme Celebration Awards at the Lancashire Football Association.

During the event, special guests presented the interns with certificates, including the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and awards written and created by their own peers.

Our Chief Executive Jacqui De-Rose, Progress Futures Manager Polly, and Progress Futures Officer Cathy presented the Progress Award to George.

Mayor of South Ribble, Coun Chris Lomax, presented Joseph with the Intern of the Year Award.

Jacqui De-Rose said: “It was absolutely fabulous to be part of the Supported Internship Programme celebration.

“Our amazing interns achieved so much in their year with us and I’m sure they will go on to do great things in their careers. It was a real pleasure to be part of their journey.”

Will Sutton, Champion of Supported Interns at Runshaw College, said: “All eight of this year’s cohort have gone above and beyond to make themselves and their families proud, who were all in attendance to watch these talented students receive their awards.

“Our interns have been amazing ambassadors for both Runshaw College and Progress Housing Group and we would like to wish them every success for their next steps.”

Two of the interns, Holly and Max, will stay on with the Group. Holly will join the Property Services Team as an administrator and Max is to take on an assistant role in the Progress Lifeline Team.

Some of the other interns have secured jobs at South Ribble Borough Council’s leisure centres and another has an apprenticeship with the BBC.

  • The DFN Project SEARCH Supported Internship Programme is designed for young people aged 16-24 who are autistic or have learning disabilities. The goal of this programme is to support the transition from education to employment and lasts for one academic year.
  • The programme has several partners, including Progress Housing Group, Runshaw College, South Ribble Borough Council, Lancashire County Council, HFT and DFN Project Search.
  • This was our second round of internships. Two of our 2021/22 Project SEARCH interns Oliver and Michael secured apprenticeships with the Group in the Health and Safety and Involvement teams respectively. Read more: Project Search: Oliver's story 
  • Others have secured roles as a security ambassador at Manchester Airport, an assistant swimming teacher and a catering team member at Runshaw College.

We look forward to welcoming more interns later this summer.

Watch as the interns say thank you for the support they received during their time with us:

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