Southdown is passionate about helping vulnerable people to overcome barriers that can prevent them from accessing work or learning opportunities. As a specialist provider of supported employment and vocational advice we support over 1,125 people each year to find jobs or gain work experience. Our supported employment services are at the forefront of innovation and good practice.
Southdown, as a major Sussex employer, is committed to maximising employment opportunities for people with disabilities within its own work force. To ensure we make this a reality, our Supported Employment teams work closely with HR to embed good practice and offer opportunities that encourage more people with disabilities to apply for positions within Southdown. Particular current initiatives include offering work experience placements, working interviews, job "carving" to meet individuals needs and including "expert by personal experience" as part of all person specifications for jobs.
In addition to our specific supported employment schemes, vocational guidance is a standard element of the support we provide as part of Supporting People funded contracts. Our Supporting People funded service users receive vocational and benefit advice as part of their Action Plans to support and motivate them into considering employment and education opportunities.