Martin’s new job, UK’s first on Work and Health

MARTIN’S NEW JOB, UK’S FIRST ON WORK AND HEALTH

Martin Read from Llandeilo in Wales is the first person in the UK to start work as part of the new Work and Health Programme launched by the UK Government.

Martin, aged 39 and who has Autism, was supported into work by Remploy Cymru, the leading disability employment specialists and is now working in the kitchen of a local pub, the Angel Inn.

He said: “Having a job is really good because I feel like I am achieving something. I get to meet different people and make new friends which is nice, working also means I’m better off financially and am able to save for the things I want to buy.”

The Work and Health Programme provides specialised support for people who are unemployed, to help them develop the skills they require to overcome barriers to employment and transform their lives

He said: “Having worked in kitchens before is useful as I know what to do, at the moment I am helping to prepare vegetables, as well as other general kitchen based duties. I’m finding it really good and having a laugh with the people I work with.”

Martin, originally from Hampshire, moved to Wales where his parents live, just over two years ago but struggled to find a job.

He added: “Remploy helped me to find a job and explained my condition to my new employer which made them more aware. My Employment Advisor Kirstie calls me before every shift to check how I am doing, make sure there are no issues and see how I am getting on at work. I would definitely recommend Remploy as they helped me get back into work!”

Kirstie Morgan, Remploy Employment Advisor said: “I’m super proud of Martin, I knew he would be perfect in a kitchen environment and he’s doing really well. I call him regularly to make sure he is okay and we supported his employer to make some reasonable adjustments to help him do his job better. Martin doesn’t like large crowds, so a behind the scenes role  is perfect for him while he builds up his confidence.”

Tracey Kindred, Martin’s manager at the Angel Inn said: “Martin has been with us for a few weeks now and has fitted in well with the team. He’s always on time, conscientious and courteous to other staff. After our first meeting with Kirstie we were quickly introduced to Martin and he started a few days later. We have always found there is someone from Remploy to answer any of our questions via email.”

Drew Smith, Head of Operations for Remploy Cymru said: “I am pleased we’ve helped Martin to find a job after two years of struggling to do this on his own. We work with lots of people just like Martin, who need our help to build their confidence and we work together with them and their employer to identify any support or adjustments to help them perform their role to the best of their ability. The Work and Health Programme will support 16,000 people like Martin across Wales and I’m delighted that Martin is the first job start for the whole of Work and Health nationally.

I would like to wish him all the best for the future.”