Interns, families, and partners from across Lanarkshire gathered to celebrate the achievements of young people from DFN Project SEARCH at a graduation event held at New College Lanarkshire's Coatbridge campus.
What is DFN Project SEARCH?
DFN Project SEARCH is a structured and supportive pathway into employment for young people with learning disabilities and autism. It is delivered through a partnership involving North Lanarkshire Council and its Supported Enterprise Service, NHS Lanarkshire, New College Lanarkshire, and ISS Facilities.
Celebrating Success
The celebration event recognized the graduates' accomplishments, with some already securing employment or progressing towards job opportunities. It brought together interns from programmes at University Hospital Hairmyres, University Hospital Monklands, and University Hospital Wishaw, highlighting the success of the supported internship model and its positive impact.
Throughout the year, interns participate in a blended programme of classroom learning and hands-on work placements within hospital departments and facilities services. This approach helps them develop vital employability skills, including communication, teamwork, timekeeping, and independence, while gaining meaningful real-world experience.
Recognition and Support
Speakers at the event acknowledged 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 their young people's journeys, with many exceeding expectations and now looking forward 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."
He added: "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, showcasing the power of partnership working and the collective commitment to creating inclusive employment opportunities across the area.
