For someone taking their first steps into a career, having the right support can make all the difference.
Through our partnership with The King’s Trust, candidates are given the opportunity to build their confidence, develop new skills and take those important first steps towards employment.
We spoke to Sharon Field, Manager of Bull Point House, a Salutem residential service supporting adults with learning disabilities, mental health needs and autism, about her experience of welcoming candidates supported by The King’s Trust.
Sharon shares how the programme has supported her team, the positive impact candidates have had on the service, and why she would encourage other managers to consider the programme.
How did The King’s Trust programme support you as a manager throughout the placement or employment journey?
The King’s Trust prepared the candidates well for their interviews and provided positive training before we met them. This meant they came to us with greater confidence and were able to show their skills and be themselves during the interview. It gave us the opportunity to see the person behind the application and understand what they could bring to the role.
What positive impact has the candidate had on your team and service?
They have engaged really well with the team and made an active effort to be included. They have grown in confidence in their support work and have made good use of the more experienced members of staff for guidance and support.
This has helped the team work together better and has contributed to shifts running more smoothly.
What motivated you to support The King’s Trust programme?
I had previously been involved with The Prince’s Trust, and that experience was extremely successful. I employed a young man who had never worked before, and the programme prepared him well and provided support to both me and my team throughout the process.
He went on to stay with us for four years and was an excellent employee. Having seen first-hand the difference the programme could make, I was keen to support it again.
What steps did you take to help the candidate feel welcomed and supported throughout the placement or employment journey?
We made sure they had buddies within the team, as well as a thorough induction and probationary period. I also made sure I had an open-door policy, so they knew they could come to me with any questions, concerns or anything they needed support with.
Creating that welcoming environment and making sure they knew they had people around them to turn to was important.
What strengths have The King’s Trust candidates brought to the team that other managers might not expect?
They have brought a real sense of enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity. They are keen to do well and genuinely want to make it work.
They have come into the role with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, which has been really valuable to the team.
What advice would you give to managers who are welcoming a The King’s Trust candidate for the first time?
Be open-minded. Remember that the candidate has already put a lot of positive effort in before they even reach the interview stage.
The programme gives them preparation and support, so as a manager, it’s important to give them the opportunity to show you what they can do and not make assumptions based on their previous experience.
Based on your experience, would you recommend The King’s Trust programme to other managers? Why?
Absolutely. It has been a very well-organised and positive experience for Bull Point House. The support provided throughout the process has been valuable, and it has resulted in a positive outcome for both the candidates and our team.
It’s a great opportunity to give someone the chance to start their career, develop their confidence and become a valued member of the team.
Creating Opportunities
Sharon’s experience shows the positive impact that the right support and opportunity can have. By welcoming The King’s Trust candidates with an open mind and providing the support they need to grow, managers can help new talent build confidence and become valued members of their teams.
For Sharon, it’s been a positive experience for both the candidates and Bull Point House — and one she would encourage other managers to consider.
