Case studies

Kyle has always known he wanted a career in hospitality and completed several Hospitality and Catering qualifications, building strong technical and practical skills. But despite his achievements, he struggled to secure employment, often not hearing back from applications or feeling unable to express himself fully during formal interviews. This all changed when the Council's Employment & Skills service, introduced Kyle to the team at Cedar Court, Huddersfield. Instead of a formal interview, something Kyle had previously found challenging, the General Manager Shaun invited Kyle for an informal chat, a tour of the kitchen, and later a work trial. Kyle's Job Coach, Dominic, then worked closely with Cedar Court to ensure the recruitment process and workplace environment were tailored to Kyle's needs. Kyle was introduced to the team, given additional time to learn new tasks, and paired with a workplace mentor. Regular check-ins helped Kyle build confidence gradually without pressure.

Shaun says:

We wanted Kyle to learn at his own pace. The team were made aware of his neurodiversity and encouraged to support him. Weekly check-ins and structured reviews helped guide him through his probation.

Kyle's advice to others facing similar challenges:

Never give up. Keep the enthusiasm to work hard, be flexible and dependable. Believe in yourself.

With wraparound support both inside and outside the workplace, Kyle has grown significantly in the months since he started. He has developed new skills, gained independence, and integrated naturally into the kitchen team. His enthusiasm and reliability have made him a valued colleague. Kyle continues to access ongoing mentoring and development opportunities as he works toward his long-term ambition of becoming a Head Chef. His role provides sustainable employment and a strong foundation for future growth.

When Community of the Resurrection needed a new horticultural apprentice, they worked with REAL Employment to help find the right person for the role.

After meeting Rebecca, a Project Officer with Kirklees Council's Employment & Skills Service, Estates Manager, Paul Hatfield identified an opportunity to create an inclusive employment role for someone who may face barriers to entering employment.

Rebecca helped advertise the apprenticeship through the REAL Employment programme. Five people applied and took part in interviews and a practical gardening task. Following the recruitment process, Adam was successful in gaining the apprenticeship.

Rebecca also helped secure funding towards the apprenticeship training costs, and Adam received support to settle into his new role.

Paul Hatfield said:

We were very impressed by all the candidates who applied. Rebecca and the team provided excellent support throughout the recruitment process, from advertising the role to helping us with the apprenticeship arrangements. We were delighted to welcome Adam to the Community and support him in his new role.

Although only one apprenticeship was available, the other applicants were encouraged to explore volunteering opportunities to help build confidence, gain experience and develop their skills for future employment.

This partnership shows how REAL Employment can help local employers recruit talented people while supporting residents into work.

With support from REAL Employment, Damian secured a paid role with Eric Wright Construction, gaining valuable experience on a project to improve local walking and cycling routes.

REAL Employment worked closely with Damian and the employer throughout the recruitment process and once he started work, providing tailored support to help him settle into the role.

Damian said:

Working with REAL Employment helped me find this opportunity. I've enjoyed working with Sam, my job coach. She understood my disability and offered the right level of support.

Because I'm in work now, I'm earning a wage, gaining experience, and meeting new people. I'm enjoying the role and getting along with the team. This puts me in a better position to progress into future roles.

Damian has cerebral palsy and a partial brain injury, which has resulted in a learning disability. Working alongside his job coach, Eric Wright Construction made simple adjustments to help him succeed in the workplace.

Nick Brett, Project Manager at Eric Wright Construction, said:

It's been great. We'd definitely hire again using this approach.

We'd encourage more employers to give people with disabilities or health conditions a chance because we know they have a great work ethic.

Sam, REAL Employment Job Coach, said:

The employer has been incredibly supportive and a genuine advocate for supported employment. It has been great to see Damian settle into the role and gain confidence through work.

This partnership shows how REAL Employment can help local people find meaningful work while supporting employers to create inclusive workplaces.