If you are unemployed and need help getting into work, or are in work and want to progress, get in touch.
Case study: Joshua's story
Joshua is a young man with Autism. Eager to move into work after completing a 12-month NHS-supported internship, he sought help from Opportunity Sheffield’s Local Supported Employment (LSE) team to find an apprenticeship.
Image
Having engaged with LSE in 2024, Joshua worked with job coach Gayle to build his confidence, communication and employability skills. This helped him recognise his strengths, such as handling data and creating spreadsheets, and understand how these skills could be valuable to employers.
In August 2024, Sheffield City Council’s Repairs and Maintenance service advertised a Level 2 Business Administration Apprenticeship in the Void Empty Property Repairs team. This looked like a good fit for Joshua and Gayle supported him to complete an application.
Once Joshua had secured an interview, Gayle contacted the hiring manager to arrange reasonable adjustments, including advance access to interview questions. Joshua was also able to attend an information session at the Manor Lane Depot, giving him a chance to meet the team and see the workplace.
On interview day, Joshua felt more relaxed and confident. The panel was sensitive to his needs and gave him time to respond, which helped him give good, structured answers and come across as friendly and personable. He even answered questions he hadn’t prepared for – and was offered the role!
Gayle continues to support Joshua and is impressed to see how he is growing in confidence. He is enjoying his apprenticeship and increasingly socialising with his team outside of work too.