Middlefields House named a champion SEND employer

The awards recognise our home's proactive approach in helping individuals with a special educational need or disability (SEND) navigate the world of work. They were presented at a special champion celebration on Tuesday 15th July.

The Wiltshire SEND Employer Champions Bronze award recognises the home’s work alongside the Wiltshire Employment Support Team (WEST) in helping young people gain the skills needed to join the workforce. This has included offering working interview placements as part of a young person’s supported internship, offering workplace visits, sharing job descriptions and conducting mock interviews.

The home also received the Supported Employment Champion Award in recognition of its long-term commitment to employing individuals with a SEND. Through WEST, the home has taken on three permanent employees across its kitchen, housekeeping and coffee shop teams.

Bev Wicks, catering manager, and Lottie, 21, kitchen assistant, attended the ceremony at County Hall, Trowbridge, on behalf of Middlefields House and accepted the awards.

Bev said, “Lottie is an absolute joy to work with. It’s rewarding for us seeing her confidence grow. She works so hard and always gives 100 per cent. She’s a very popular member of staff – everyone loves her.”

Lottie said, “I’ve definitely gained more confidence since coming to Middlefields House and I feel more independent too. The team have been very supportive and have helped me make adjustments where needed.”

The awards were presented by Jon Hubbard, Councillor for Melksham South and Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education, and Skills.

Middlefields House is run by Christian charity Pilgrims’ Friend Society and opened in Chippenham in August 2021.

Sarah Stockinger is the business manager at the home. Sarah said, “As a Christian organisation, we recognise that everyone has unique skills and gifts to offer. We are delighted to both provide job opportunities to individuals with a SEND and also equip young people with the tools they need to gain employment and be successful in the workplace.”