Cleanzine: your weekly cleaning and hygiene industry newsletter 18th April 2024 Issue no. 1110
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Serco employees hit perfect 10!
It's a perfect 10 for some of Scotland's supported employees thanks to Serco Facilities Management providing jobs for 10 people from the service. Nine of these supported employees were previously Project Search students - Project Search is a one year course run for people with a learning disability who are working towards finding a job - which plays a huge part in preparing people for, and helping them find work.
Serco took over the contract for facilities management in Wishaw General Hospital in 2001, providing services including catering to patients, staff and visitors; domestic services; portering services; linen services; maintenance and switchboard. It is also one of four partners including North Lanarkshire Council, NHS Lanarkshire and New College Lanarkshire, involved in Project Search at Wishaw General Hospital and has been active in providing placements for students since Project Search started in Wishaw in 2010.
"The students who have gained employment have done so through the normal recruitment channels," explains Linda Watson, acting manager with Serco. They have gone on to become valuable members of the team which is due to the experience they gain in working in the different departments as well as the input from the job coaches who work hard to prepare them for all aspects of working life."
Des Murray, assistant chief executive, Enterprise & Housing Resources with North Lanarkshire Council adds: "Project Search is a fantastic course that equips people with the skills they need for employment. I'm delighted with the support Serco has given in providing opportunities for people with a disability to find work.
"Partnership working is key to the success of finding jobs for young people and we all share the same will to improve their confidence. I wish all the recruits every success for the future.
"Having a job changes lives - that's what employees tell us."
One of those employees, Rikki Leiper from Wishaw, says: "I enjoy working with Serco, and the support I receive from my colleagues and managers.
"Working for Serco has provided me with financial security which has now allowed me to buy my own home."
Fellow worker Christopher Davis from Motherwell says: "Project Search has helped me meet new people. Working for Serco has given me confidence in working and communicating with others and the finances to enjoy social activities with family and friends, including travelling abroad to watch my favourite football team."
20th April 2017