Project SEARCH graduate wins Star Performer award

Project SEARCH Graduate, Christopher Oliver, who recently gained full time employment with Serco at Derriford Hospital, has been recognised as their Star Performer for July.

The monthly award was presented by his line manager, Louise Pelly, in recognition of his outstanding service.

Louise was very enthusiastic about Christopher’s customer service skills and had received unsolicited positive feedback from both patients and departmental managers.

“We have had many comments from grateful patients for the courteous service he provides and from managers who ask, who is that really polite new porter?”

Christopher was both surprised and delighted to win the award and will be invited to Serco’s Star Performers award ceremony later in the year.

He said; “I just love doing my job and I’m glad that Project SEARCH helped to get me paid work. Maybe I can win the Star Performer of the year, if I keep working hard.”

Julie Hawke, Serco Employee Relations Manager, said; “We are proud to be part of Project SEARCH and are looking forward to working with the new cohort starting in September.”

Project SEARCH supports young adults with learning disabilities to find and sustain mainstream employment and have just completed their third year and are currently planning the curriculum for year four.

In Plymouth, Project Search is a partnership between Derriford Hospital, City College Plymouth, Pluss and Serco who work closely together to help the interns reach their employment potential whilst enriching their lives and independence.