Set up as a pilot scheme in 2007 by East Sussex County Council, Choices is now a fully developed service, matching the talents and experience of its clients with local employers.
From part-time voluntary positions to paid employment, Choices has helped over 23 people to move into work. Staff and users of the service gathered to mark this great achievement, in a special ceremony at the Bellbrook Centre in Uckfield on 12 June 2009.
During the event, awards were made to those individuals who had done outstandingly well, either by their contribution as an employee, or through the support they had given as an employer.
‘Employee of the Year' was given to Tim Churchman, who now works part-time at the Co-op in Heathfield.
‘Employer of the Year' was awarded to the Co-op in Heathfield, in recognition of its commitment to Tim, and the ongoing support of all the staff in helping him to fit in.
Patti Coomber, Personnel Manager at the Co-op, said:
“Tim is willing, very enthusiastic and takes pride in his work. He gets on well with his colleagues, is good with customers and…he's good at break-dancing!!”
Councillor Bill Bentley, Lead Member for Adult Social Care, summed up saying:
“Happy birthday Choices! This service has made a really good start over the past two years, and I look forward to seeing what it can do over the next two!”
Further information
‘Choices' is an East Sussex County Council service which helps adults with learning disabilities to enter employment. It offers training, support and guidance to help them achieve this goal, and generally boosts people's independence, confidence and self-esteem. The end result is that the individuals who use Choices are able to give something back to the community.
Reference:
PR2428
Contact the press team
East Sussex County Council