Project SEARCH 2025/2026 interns start training programmes at Princess of Wales and Prince Charles Hospitals
This month, the 2025/2026 Project Search training interns started their training programmes with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board.
Project SEARCH is a renowned partnership programme dedicated to empowering individuals with learning difficulties and/or autism through education and employment. The project is run in partnership with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Elite Supported Employment, Bridgend College and The College Merthyr. The supported interns follow an academic calendar and complete three rotations in different departments.
Last year, five supported interns from Merthyr Tydfil and eight from Bridgend were offered placements in Princess of Wales and Prince of Wales hospitals, working across different departments including: Facilities, Ophthalmology, IT, Physiotherapy, HSDU, Antenatal, Day Surgery, Theatres, Pharmacy, Housekeeping, Urology, Mail room, Dementia ward, Clinical Engineering, Care of the Elderly, Pathology, Medical Records and Catering.
After completing their rotations, the supported interns attended graduation ceremonies, where they were each presented with a certificate of completion, acknowledging their commitment and readiness to enter the workforce.
The graduation ceremonies were attended by the supported interns, their friends, families, colleagues representing the different departments which supported and ran the internships, and staff from Elite Supported Employment, and the two colleges.
Since completing the placements, last year’s interns have all had positive outcomes. 5 have taken on volunteer roles, 5 are employed and 3 are actively job seeking.
Ethan was one of the Project Search Graduates from 2025. This is his story: Project Search Interns - Ethan's Story
Andrea Wayman, CEO of Elite Supported Employment said: "We are incredibly proud of each and every one of our graduates. Their journey through Project SEARCH has been one of discovery and achievement. They have not only developed professional skills but have also become integral members of our community."
Rhian Lewis Learning and Development Lead at CTMUHB said: “The project has enabled the interns to gain invaluable workplace experience and knowledge of the healthcare sector, and to hone their work skills. Looking ahead, the future is bright for these talented individuals. Equipped with newfound skills and confidence, they are poised to make meaningful contributions to the workforce and beyond. Their graduation from Project SEARCH is not just a milestone but a launch pad for their continued success and independence. I'd like to wish a huge congratulations to the Project SEARCH supported interns on their graduation! Your achievements inspire us all, and we look forward to witnessing the incredible journeys that lie ahead."
For more information about Project SEARCH internships, please email: CTM.Qualifications@wales.nhs.uk
15/09/2025