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Gloucestershire Business News

Disability no barrier to career success with National Star

Tash Bird never thought she would get a job, let alone secure one during the coronavirus pandemic. But the 21-year-old did just that and is working as a hostess with Avonmore Care Home in Bristol.

Tash admits she has come a long way, thanks to the support of National Star. When she started as a Steps Supported Intern, she battled with low confidence and high levels of anxiety.

Thanks to the one-to-one support from her tutor to help her settle into the work placement, Tash got the experience she needed to get a job.

Tash said: "I thought no one would ever take me on, but they did. Thanks to the support of Sarah (her tutor), I now have so much more confidence. I've smashed it."

Tash, who has mild cerebral palsy, moderate learning difficulties and autistic traits, was referred to National Star by the South Gloucestershire Transition team. She wanted to expand her level of experience in the catering industry, while gaining qualifications that would help her find paid employment.

During her placement, Tash improved her communication with customers and money skills, and completed training around food hygiene and health and safety.

When she received an interview with Avonmore Care Home, Tash's tutor worked with her to prepare so that she could feel confident.

She said: "I am able to complete a lot of tasks on my own, which I couldn't do at the start. I am more confident with customers. My tutor was there 24/7 to calm me down and now I have learned to calm myself."

Explore National Star's work-related learning programmes here

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