Interns, families, and partners from across Lanarkshire came together to celebrate the success of young people from DFN Project SEARCH as they marked their graduation event.
DFN Project SEARCH is a structured and supportive pathway into employment for young people with learning disabilities and autism. It’s delivered through a partnership involving North Lanarkshire Council and its Supported Enterprise Service, NHS Lanarkshire, New College Lanarkshire, and ISS Facilities.
The celebration event held at New College Lanarkshire’s Coatbridge Campus, recognised the achievements of the graduates, some of whom have already secured employment or are progressing towards job opportunities. It brought together interns from programmes based at University Hospital Hairmyres, University Hospital Monklands, and University Hospital Wishaw, highlighting the success of the supported internship model and the positive impact it has.
Throughout the year, interns take part in a blended programme of classroom learning and hands-on work placements within hospital departments and facilities services. This approach allows them to develop vital employability skills, including communication, teamwork, timekeeping, and independence, while gaining meaningful real-world experience.
Speakers at the event recognised the dedication and resilience of the interns, as well as the essential role played by families, job coaches, tutors, and employer partners. Families had the opportunity to reflect on the journeys of their young people, with many exceeding expectations and now looking ahead to exciting next steps.
Provost of North Lanarkshire, Kenneth Duffy, said: “The graduation event was a proud moment for everyone involved, celebrating not only the completion of the programme but also the personal growth and achievements of each student. Many have built confidence, developed new skills, and taken significant steps towards greater independence.
“Congratulations to everyone involved and to all the young graduates who are now set to embark on an exciting new chapter in their employment journey. I wish each and every one of them every success.”
Bringing together the three Lanarkshire sites for a joint celebration created a strong sense of unity and shared success and showcased the power of partnership working and the collective commitment to creating inclusive employment opportunities across the area.