When Annie first joined Team Domenica, she felt anxious in unfamiliar situations, especially when meeting new people. Through our Supported Employment Programme, she gradually came out of her shell and found her confidence.

She excelled in our training cafés – Café Domenica – and on work experience in the community. With the support of her Training Mentor, Annie even conquered her fear of heights and abseiled at an end-of-year Enrichment trip!

In her second year, Annie completed a number of trial shifts at Wakehurst. She worked within the Graysons team, serving customers and clearing tables at Stables Kitchen and Pantry. She loved the indepence of this new role and wanted to continue helping customers have the best trip possible.

Graysons were so impressed with our programmes – and Annie’s drive for success – that Annie soon joined them for a full supported internship. She was nervous on her first day, but with the support of her colleagues and Job Coach, Julie, it wasn’t long until she relaxed into her role.

Annie learnt to be patient with herself, breaking down individual tasks and practicing each step. She applied the skills she learnt in our training cafés to serve customers delicious food and make barista-style drinks.

It’s been amazing watching, and supporting, Annie. Seeing her confidence flourish with staff and customers has been amazing. She is very, very good at her job – it often feels like she’s running the show!

Julie, Annie’s Team Domenica Job Coach

After successfully completing her supported internship with Graysons, Annie initially moved onto a fixed-term contract. However, just two months later, she was offered a permanent position within their ranks!

Today, Annie is an invaluable member of the team, demonstrating fantastic customer service and thriving in her role. She particularly enjoys preparing food items and saying “Enjoy!” as she places them on the counter.

When speaking on Annie’s journey, Harri (Participation Manager at Wakehurst) said:

Less than 5% of people with a learning disability have any type of paid employment. It’s so important that as an organisation we make every possible effort to ensure we are an inclusive employer. Annie is incredible at her job, and we are so pleased she is now a permanent member of the Wakehurst team!