Joseph's future looks bright after Empower Works support

A Northumberland man has gone from volunteering into full time work after a successful work trial supported by Empower Works.

24-year-old Joseph Davison was ‘struggling’ to find paid work when his Jobcentre Plus work coach referred him to the employment programme run by the North East Autism Society’s Employment Futures team.

Despite holding a diploma in engineering, Joseph was left with a lack of confidence after a string of unsuccessful job applications.

“I didn’t know what opportunities were out there,” Joseph said.

As a result, Employment Specialist Katy Jones’ first goal when working with Joseph was to boost his confidence.

Katy used an online profiler to help identify Joseph’s strengths, and offered him the opportunity to go to a jobs fair focused on neurodivergent jobseekers, where Joseph met representatives of AzkoNobel.

Joseph followed up with further emails to AzkoNobel and was invited to tour their Ashington factory, where the company manufactures Dulux paint and other brands.

The company also set up an informal chat with Joseph to discuss potential work opportunities, which was followed up by a work placement.

Joseph said: “I felt positive straight away during my informal chat, everyone was supportive and encouraging.”

He added: “This part of the recruitment process was invaluable, it gave me the opportunity to see if I liked the work, and for AzkoNobel to see if I was right for the role.”

After a successful work placement, Joseph was invited to AzkoNobel for an interview, which Katy supported him with in advance.

“Katy supported me on what to wear, travel support, and questions to ask,” Joseph said.

“I liked the speed of the process. I was offered the job the day after my interview.”

Since he started working at AzkoNobel as a Manufacturing Support Operator, Katy has supported Joseph with meetings to ensure reasonable adjustments were made, and made an Access to Work claim to ensure Joseph has taxis to the factory.

Katy said: “I loved working with Joe—meeting him and his Nana at the job centre and supporting him through the recruitment journey.

The routine and structure of the factory has worked well for Joseph, and his role involves working hands on to ensure containers are clean, safe, and ready for recycling or re-use.

Joseph said he has gained confidence, feels more independent, and has generally improved his mental health and wellbeing since starting work.

Joseph added: “Overall I gain a lot of job satisfaction in this department, and I like my fellow work colleagues.”

“My grandparents have noticed positive changes,” Joseph added, “I talk all about my job when I arrive home from work.”

Joseph is now looking to move into a shared flat with a friend, when they also find employment.

For more information on Empower Works, visit empowerworksne.org.uk