Employability Sport Projects

DSY is running Employability Sports projects based in Kirklees (supported by Kirklees Council, Joanies Trust, and Bailey Thomas Trust), and in Wakefield, supported by Groundwork. There are plans, (subject to funding), to commence a project in Barnsley in 2020.

The courses offer “on the job” work experience for adults with a learning disability or mental illness diagnosis, by supporting them to learn the various roles involved in running a community sports club. Participants learn roles via role plays, and practise, and then perform them on matchdays, under the supervision of a Job Coach. The ultimate aim is to get participants ready for work. Included in the projects are modules on: Programme selling, turnstile operation, food preparation and hygiene, first aid, service, and bar sales, planning an event, marketing, risk, and budgets.

All students are progressing well, with improvements in confidence and self esteem, making new friends, and working towards independence.

Student, Awais, from Huddersfield said “This has been the best 13 weeks of my life. Thank you. I feel more confident, and I have made new friends.”

Please view the impact video from our pilot project held at Shelley FC.

https://www.facebook.com/HTAFCFoundation/videos/2186377701610793/UzpfSTExMTU1OTY5MjI4NjQ4NToxOTY4NjQyODM5OTExNDg1/?notif_id=1549903426378449&notif_t=page_post_reaction

To watch Marsha’s video about being an Employability Ambassador click here https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/learning-disabilities/work.aspx

For more information about DSY inclusive Sports Ambassadors click here

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[quote_slide byline=”Sport work experience programmes run by DSY” rating=”0|1|2|3|4|5″] ‘Your organisation has found employment contacts for my son and taken the time and trouble to follow up these leads. I have greatly valued your professionalism, your reliability. (you always got back to me when you said you would) and the huge support you have given us. My son has thoroughly enjoyed the work experience placement you were good enough to find him. Although this has not led to paid work, due to LEA spending cuts, the experience has increased his self-worth and given him a purpose. In addition it has enabled him to use the skills he was trained for.
I am extremely grateful for all the care and support we have received. If DSY ceased to exist it would be a huge loss to us, the community and many other families with similar problems.”[/quote_slide]
[quote_slide byline=”Parent” rating=”0|1|2|3|4|5″] ‘For many years our son has been involved with DSY.  Without the support, enthusiasm, encouragement and total commitment of the staff I know he would not be where he is today and have achieved so much.  We feel so privileged to have been supported by Fiona who understands learning disability.  Her help, advice and involvement are invaluable.’[/quote_slide]

[quote_slide byline=”Alexander’s Parents” rating=”0|1|2|3|4|5″]‘Alexander’s passion is swimming, he has taken part in the FDSO schools gala numerous times and this has given him the experience of competitive sport which he now thoroughly enjoys and takes part in regularly.  Fiona sourced the National Pool Lifeguard course for him to obtain the qualification, she also ensured that all concerned were aware of Alexander’s needs.  With tremendous hard work from all parties, he managed to achieve his goal in life of becoming a qualified lifeguard.  Fiona found him a work placement at Concord Sports Centre where he is now working one day a week.  As well as practising the role of lifeguard, Alexander is encouraged to take part in staff training sessions which helps to maintain his lifeguarding qualification.  He works as part of a team integrating in the ‘real world’.  He has gained so much confidence and self-esteem.’[/quote_slide]

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Listen to what our course participants think to the course>