Support Differently: Joe’s story

‘I can’t believe I’m here, I’ve achieved so much already. I feel more independent and it’s a cool thing to support others.’

When Joe first started his apprenticeship at Furzey Gardens’ tearooms, he wanted to gain experience in a real workplace, build his confidence away from home and become more independent.

With support from his job coach at Totton College, Joe found an opportunity at Minstead Trust. He went on to complete his Customer Service Apprenticeship at Hanger Farm with a Distinction last year.

Since then, Joe has secured paid work across Minstead Trust’s social enterprises, including Furzey Gardens, Minstead Lodge, Hanger Farm and the Real Jam & Chutney Company.

His role involves a bit of everything, from cooking and making coffees to sharing his knowledge with others. He’s now mentoring people we support, including volunteers and those following the same apprenticeship pathway he completed.

When Joe first started, he found some tasks challenging, particularly using the till because he struggles with reading. With patience, practice and encouragement from his team, he gradually built his confidence and developed new skills.

Now, Joe is putting those skills into practice every day, while helping others discover what they can achieve too.

Empowering Employment is about more than finding a job. It’s about having the opportunity to develop skills, build confidence, earn an income and become more independent. It’s also about sharing what you’ve learnt and helping others succeed.

This year’s Big Give Christmas Challenge will help fund key areas of our Support Differently vision, including Empowering Employment, so more people we support can access meaningful work and build a future on their own terms.