Our Services
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.
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.
Head office, Burr Hill Chase
Southend on Sea
Essex. SS2 6PE
Service Manager: Sharon Needham
Employment Team Leader: Laura Rice
Telephone: 01702 212754
Email: miw@southendcare.co.uk
Case Study
Patrick is neurodiverse. His mother contacted the Making it Work Team back in 2018. Since leaving college he had been volunteering at a local charity shop and working at a local cleaning company in their office answering the door intercom and the phones without pay.
The team worked with Patrick to identify his work preferences. We introduced him to Mencap and a voluntary position inputting data onto their systems. He was a member of the Service User interview board when appointing a new Director of Operations for Southend Care. We worked with Patrick to build his confidence and skill set.
Patrick’s placement at the local company came to an end when they refused to pay him for the hours he worked, even though we had the evidence to show he had the capabilities to undertake the role.
Patrick was supported by the Making it Work Team with an application for a position with Southend Care on their Business Support Team. He was successful with his application and commenced employment in Feb 2021.
Patrick is a reliable, punctual, polite, well-presented young man. His primary tasks and responsibilities are meet and greet on Brook Meadows House reception and the first point of contact for visitors. He also undertakes admin task ad hoc, and Patrick’s strengths are his attention to detail and his systematic ways of working.
Initially Patrick started on a 6-hour contract, however he impressed his manager so much that they initially increased his hours to 15 hours a week. He now is fulfilling a full-time contract.
He also deputises in the reception area at Brook Meadow House, covering times when needed, directing visitors to the right areas and fielding phone calls.
It has been wonderful to see his confidence grow as he takes on more responsibility and become an important member of the team.
The staff team at the care home are aware Patrick has a learning disability and supported by the Making it Work team. His work ethic and working practices are seen as an example to others.
Making it Work
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.”
“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!”
“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.”
“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.”
