Jack ‘wows’ through WorkFit project

Jack ‘wows’ through WorkFit project.

Jack, 26, had wanted a job for a long time, but had only done voluntary work in cafes before. His dream was to head off to work each day for a paid job, like his dad and his brothers.

And that’s where the WorkFit project came in, run by the Down’s Syndrome Association.

Part funded in County Durham by County Durham Community Foundation’s ESF Programme, the project helps jobseekers like Jack, who has Down’s syndrome, find the right employment for them: and opens up opportunities for employers to recruit brilliant members of staff.

Can-do attitude

Through the project, Jack was soon matched with GXO Logistics in Washington, a busy logistics site that provides recycling and equipment management for ASDA supermarket.

Paul, the site manager said: “Wow Wow Wow – that is how I would describe WorkFit, there is such a commitment to the work they do to help get people into jobs, it is such an inspiration.

“Myself and my team consider ourselves to be so lucky to have the chance to work with WorkFit and to be able to offer Jack a position with our team.

“He walked into our operation and within his first day he made an impression on all of the team with his big smile and ‘can do’ attitude.

“Jack loves to talk to the team but knows how important his job is in the warehouse, from hygiene to moving customer products around. I can honestly say even on my busiest of days I always go home with a smile knowing Jack is part of our team.”

Part of the team

Jack now works six hours a week as a Recycling Operative, with additional hours offered for the future if he wants them.

Jack’s family said: “We are so happy that Jack has a job and feels like other adults do when going out to work and getting a wage. Jack is allowed to voice his wishes and opinions.

“He has made a lot of new friends through his role. He likes that he gets paid every week and asks if the money is in his bank. He always has a bath when he gets home because he’s worked so hard and he needs to relax. He is now happy to go to work and looks forward to being paid and able to treat himself.”

Grants of up to £10,000 are now available for activities helping people move closer to work.

Round 8 is open now, and this is the last chance to apply.

Applications must be submitted by 11pm on Sunday 30th January 2022 and applicants will receive a decision by the end of February 2022.

Activities should take place between April and December 2022.

Want to talk to a member of the team about a potential project? Please email info@cdcf.org.uk and we’ll be in touch.

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