Last week our Project SEARCH team gathered at Calderdale College to celebrate the Graduation of the DFN Project SEARCH class of 2026. Project SEARCH is a supported internship programme that offers young adults with learning disabilities or autism spectrum conditions the opportunity to secure meaningful permanent employment. 

Job Coach, Tracey Thompson, pictured left having some fun with fellow Job Coach, Candice Paniczew, said: "It was lovely to welcome the interns and their families alongside college staff and many members of CHFT. This was a wonderful celebration event to reflect what a fantastic year the interns have had.

"We were super lucky to hear from Chief Executive, Rob Aitchison, about the impact our interns have made on the Trust in the last year. Patient Experience and Inclusion Worker, Toseef Ahmed, also shared his pride.  

"Our interns have grown into independent, confident young adults who are ready to move into meaningful paid employment and have come a long way since join us last September. We couldn't do this though without the continued support of the amazing staff here at CHFT, including ISS, CHS and Equans. Thank you to every single person who has supported this group over the past year, be that with a work placement, interview practice or just talking to them has made such a big impact on the interns and their journey.

"We are pleased to say that so far three of the interns have gained paid employment in CHFT, so you will still see them around. We wish all our interns the best of luck in their future and are already looking forward to welcoming the next set of interns!

"Don't miss out on another exciting year. Please contact us to see how you can get involved with DFN Project SEARCH and help us change lives - projectsearch@calderdale.ac.uk

Our interns received their certificates from the Mayor of Halifax, Councillor Andrew Tagg.