Bryan shows signs of talent

21 Oct 2016

Bryan Brierley, who works as a kitchen porter at Ashburne Hall, obtained his job at the University with the support of Greater Manchester Talent Match

Greater Manchester Talent Match is a Big Lottery-funded programme which brings together the private, public and voluntary sectors to support young people aged 18-24 who have not been in employment, education or training for 12 months or more and who need extra support to help them along their pathway to work.

Talent Coaches provide what young people have said was missing from other youth employment schemes - a highly personalised, holistic approach that supports them to overcome personal and practical barriers to employment. 

After joining the scheme in June 2015, Bryan was supported by his Talent Coach, Tracey Bell from Breakthrough UK, along his pathway to work.

Bryan said of his mentor: "Tracey does a fantastic job. She helped me to study and get a job. She is a very, very nice lady."

In addition to support from Tracey, Bryan was also supported by Penny Wilkinson, a BSL Trainee Interpreter. It was Penny who helped Bryan find his current job, as kitchen porter at the University, which he enjoys.

Penny also supported two other deaf young people into jobs at the University and is working alongside the University to help improve deaf awareness.

Members of the University's FoodInResidences team are receiving training in BSL from Penny to help them communicate with two colleagues who are deaf.