WE Work for Everyone Case Study

The Mayoral Priority Skills Fund (MPSF) provides flexible grant funding to meet current priority skills gaps in the region – such as where there is currently no other funding available.

The MPSF is funding WE Work for Everyone, a project which works with people with a learning difficulty, learning disability and/or autism. The project helps them to move closer to or achieve and maintain paid employment, supported by a Navigator on a 1-to-1 basis.

People with learning difficulties can face challenges in finding and maintaining suitable jobs. They may deal with multiple barriers, such as employability skills, making it harder to secure stable, long-term employment or build a lasting career.

Oliver had completed his degree and was seeking an internship or entry level position and was referred to the programme by a Development Worker from South Gloucestershire’s Community Learning and Skills Service. Oliver was hoping to find a career pathway in music production or to get advice on how to access the industry. His navigator sought professional advice from a working music producer who provided start up information, advice and introduced him to networking contacts.

Feedback from Oliver:

“Before I received support, my previous mentor advised me on my CV and pointed out areas that required development.

Previously, my employment search was limited to Indeed, but my Navigator helped me expand and diversify my searches and opened new pathways to me that also supported by ambitions. My Navigator then supported me to apply for positions. They supported me with the position I applied for, which I got and became employed. I would not have gotten this job without the information my Navigator provided.

“We Work For Everyone has boosted my confidence and helped me develop my skills to a more polished and professional level. It’s been fantastic, very supportive and influential. Many people will just tell you what to do or where to go, but my Navigator took time to make sure I understood and supported me with applications.

It’s really great - I have already recommended it to other people I know. I will continue to promote the project for others in need.”