Meet our learners – A.J

24 July 2025 By Marketing

With the support from the Employment Hub and Learn Devon, A.J successfully secured a part-time job at a local charity.

A.J at her new place of work.

After seeing a job advertised on Indeed.com, A.J knew that she would need some support with the application due to her learning difficulties. A.J made contact with the Barnstable Employment Hub and met with Kirsty, a Hub Adviser. With Kirsty’s input, A.J got support with the application process and was further directed to Learn Devon’s supported employment team.

With 1-2-1 sessions, A.J was supported in completing her job application and preparing for the interview. She was also accompanied by a member of staff to her interview, ensuring that she felt confident throughout the process.

After a successful interview, A.J was delighted to be offered a part-time job as a domestic assistant at an organisation providing supported accommodation. After accepting the position, A.J. also received Learn Devon’s support during her induction and onboarding with her new employer.

Since starting in the new role, A.J has continued to make use of the help and facilities available at the Employment Hub. She has been able to use a Hub laptop to complete staff training and print certificates.

The supported employment team also worked with A.J’s new line-manager to negotiate reasonable adjustments in the workplace. A.J’s line-manager was positive about having her as a member of staff, ‘She’s going from strength to strength, she is a pleasure to work with, always joyful and has a good sense of humour.’

Photo of the outside of Barnstaple library

Barnstable Employment Hub located at Barnstaple Library.

The collaboration between Learn Devon’s supported employment team and the Employment Hub staff was key to A.J’s smooth transition in employment. The partnership highlights the positive impact of how these two services can support individuals with learning disabilities to achieve their employment goals.

A.J. explained that, ‘getting a real job, with a contract, makes me and my family very proud. To finally be accepted as a normal working person has helped my confidence. I feel very lucky.’