Working together with Nando's, Huddersfield, we were able to identify potential employment opportunities. Having already worked with Kirklees College providing work placement opportunities for students with learning disabilities and/or autism, the manager was already aware of the potential and positive impact it could have on the workplace.

Working together, a 12-week, paid, work trial for jobseekers was established. With dedicated support and encouragement, the team at Nando's could see just how hardworking, reliable, honest, and capable our jobseekers are.

Nando's manager said, "Employing someone with a learning disability and/or autism truly is a massive advantage to any business. Not only in terms of their work ethic, but how it highlights the need for additional training and education need for the whole team."

Since working with REAL and Kirklees College, Nando's in Huddersfield is now a Disability Confident employer.

Meet Marsha. She first contacted us back 2016 seeking sustained employment. She has a mild learning disability and speech impediment, but this doesn't stop her achieving her goals. Working with a Job Coach, Marsha secured two part time cleaning roles and with the money she earned herself, she was able to move into her own place.

More recently, Marsha was looking for a new challenge. A cleaning opportunity arose at the Huddersfield Town training ground and with Marsha's previous experience, it was the perfect fit. With the support of her training coach, she prepared for her interview and walked in feeling confident. Working with the Job Coach, the team at Canal Street could make reasonable adjustments to ensure that Marsha felt comfortable. After what was an exemplary interview, she was hired and became part of the team at Huddersfield Town!