Midshire provides work experience opportunity for special needs student

Working with Cheadle and Marple College, Midshire has provided a two-day work experience placement for a student with special needs at its offices in Bredbury.

Student Laura Bailey, from Derbyshire, has Down’s syndrome and was supported by a member of staff from the college during her placement.

Laura Bailey helping with filing during her work experience

Laura who recently celebrated her 21^st birthday, worked at Midshire for two-days in March, from 10am – 2pm, assisting the Midshire Northern administration team. Laura completed a number of office-based administration tasks, including: using the computer to print off Health & Safety paperwork, using the photocopier, hole punching, stapling and the filing of paperwork.

Debbie Wilson, Midshire Northern Operations Manager comments: “It was an absolute pleasure being able to invite Laura into our office for some valuable work experience. She was polite and very keen to complete every task we set her to a really good standard. It was clear as her time with us progressed that she was settling in and became comfortable in her surroundings. Midshire staff welcomed her warmly and made every effort to support her. Altogether this was a very rewarding experience for both Laura and Midshire.”

Eileen Warburton, from Cheadle and Marple College supported Laura during her placement at Midshire and comments on her time: “Thank you to all at Midshire for giving Laura such a wonderful time – she loved it! She went away with a bag of goodies and photos of her time with you that will be included in her scrapbook diary of her experience.”

Laura Bailey with Midshire MD Julian Stafford and Administration Assistant Rebekah Guest

Providing work placements for students with a learning or physical disability can be very rewarding for both parties. Not only do these students have a lot to offer, but it will help staff in your business to develop their communication and management skills, positively challenging them to be more empathetic and flexible in the way they work.

Recognised for assisting with both the training and education of young people between the age of 14 and 19 in Stockport, Midshire was awarded the silver ‘Working with Young People Award’ by Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council in 2015.

Midshire has worked with the college previously, offering week-long work placements to four Cheadle and Marple College students in 2015. The students were able to choose which department they would like to work in, including: accounts, administration, marketing and telemarketing.

Julian Stafford, Midshire Northern Managing Director comments: “What a pleasure it was to meet and work with Laura. We are always pleased to support our local schools and colleges by providing similar placements. Working with and supporting young people through work experience, apprenticeships and through our academy is one of the aspects of running a business I enjoy the most.”

Midshire will continue to offer placements for both special needs students and the week-long work opportunities as part of its Corporate and Social Responsibility plans to support the community, environment and charitable projects, both locally and nationally.