Our Services

Making it work

This specialist employment service provides people with learning disabilities the opportunity to access all types of employment, including voluntary, work experience and paid employment. The service also provides travel training where needed and advice on employment related matters.

At this Service:

Job searching and support with applying for a post.

Job coaching.

Travel training.

Integration of the employee into the workforce.

Support to access social groups.

Contact Details

Head office, Burr Hill Chase
Southend on Sea
Essex. SS2 6PE

Employment Co-ordinator: Sharon Needham
Telephone: 01702 212754
Email: sharonneedham@southendcare.co.uk

Case Study

Danielle’s hard work pays off

We started working with Danielle in January 2018, when she came to us from the job centre.

Backed by Southend Care, Danielle enthusiastically started work experience as a Domestic Assistant at Priory House. Here she gained invaluable experience of working in a care home setting. She also completed a manual handling course and worked closely with residents on a work experience placement at Spencer House.

A dramatic improvement was noticeable during Danielle’s time with Southend Care, with a leap forward in her confidence, skills and work place conduct. Danielle began applying for paid work again and in November 2018 she secured part-time work at Langley Lodge Nursing Home in Westcliff.

Thanks to Making it Work, our supported employment team, for their support and trust in Danielle. And congratulations to her in proving hard work and passion really does pay off.

“A dramatic improvement was noticeable during Danielle’s time with Southend Care.”

Making it Work

The team

Sharon Needham

Sharon Needham

Employment Manager

Sharon has worked in the care sector for over 36 years. Starting in the private sector, she has also worked for several local borough councils. Sharon began managing the Making it Work service in 2017 and has been instrumental in shaping it. She enjoys visiting historical buildings, watching rugby, cooking, and especially values spending time with her family.

“A dramatic improvement was noticed during Danielle’s time with Southend Care.”

Social Worker

“It’s remarkable the change in JK – thank you so much. He has a life now, not just an existence…. I will definitely keep referring into your service!”

Social Worker

“Thanks for helping me get some work experience as I was getting nowhere. But seeing you guys has helped me believe in myself. To say thank you I have made some chocolate brownies.”

Service User

“You certainly gave J the confidence boost he needed! I am pleased to say he is having a trial shift next week and seems much happier already.”

Relative