DFN Project SEARCH Dumfries and Galloway Honoured For Outstanding Employment Outcomes At Annual Awards

Dumfries and Galloway’s DFN Project SEARCH East site was celebrated at the DFN Project SEARCH Annual Awards Gala last week in Leicester for achieving an impressive 77% positive employment outcome rate for the 2022/2023 academic year – the highest ever for the site.

This achievement underscores the hard work and dedication of the young interns, who have set a new standard for the programme.

Coordinated by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Employability and Skills Service, in partnership with Dumfries and Galloway College and local employers, the programme supports young people with learning disabilities and autism spectrum conditions to gain meaningful employment.

Councillor Maureen Johnstone, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, praised the achievement: “This award reflects not only the commitment of our DFN Project SEARCH team but also the outstanding talent and drive of the young interns. Their accomplishments show what is possible when we open doors and provide the right support.”

Councillor Lynne Davis, Vice Chair of the Committee, added: “Reaching a 77% positive outcome rate is remarkable. It’s a testament to the hard work of our young people and the dedication of our colleagues leading Project SEARCH in the region. This award celebrates the meaningful impact they’re making and exemplifies the incredible potential that can be unlocked when given the opportunity.”

Anne Clark, Curriculum Manager, Education and Access, at Dumfries and Galloway College, said:

“We are incredibly proud of our interns’ achievements and their commitment to developing new skills to build their futures. This recognition highlights the power of collaboration between education and industry to create meaningful opportunities. We look forward to seeing even more success as the programme continues to inspire and support young people across our region.”

This recognition honours not only the unwavering support from colleagues and partners but also the impressive achievements of the interns themselves.Looking ahead, DFN Project SEARCH Dumfries and Galloway remains committed to creating inclusive pathways to employment for young people right across the region.