Surrey-based initiative helping neurodivergent people get into paid work
The SELL scheme aims to support 40 more people into work by 2026 after a successful trial last year created placements and paid roles
A Surrey project that's helping neurodivergent people and those with disabilities find work in the health care sector is looking to expand.
The Supported Employment Liaison Leads (SELL) project works alongside Surrey Heartlands Health and Care Partnership, as well as Surrey Country Council.
After a successful pilot last year, which saw 79 individuals supported and six moving into paid jobs, the scheme now looks to help more people by 2026.
The aim is to help 40 more people break into job roles next year- whether that's through work experience, volunteering and even paid employment within the NHS and health care settings.
Organisers say the scheme is not just helping to fill vacancies but also making work places more inclusive and positive.
Surrey Choices is one group in the initiative that connects neurodivergent people with appropriate employers. Christina Earl is the Head of Innovation and Business Development and says that inclusive hiring can boost teams in the workplace:
"The people we help and support really want to work. They really appreciate the help of getting a job and that attitude spreads across the team."
One employer said a participant named David makes work a better place to be:
"He really does light up the office- not just his work but his sense of humour and his kindness too."
The SELL programme is being highlighted as a potential answer to workforce shortages, whilst showing wider benefits of inclusive hiring.