Our Stories | Orchardville - Opportunity Employment Support
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Over 170 Participants Recognised At Our 2019 Awards Ceremony

News Story

Orchardville’s 24th Annual Awards Ceremony was held on 8th May at Titanic Belfast, with the achievements of over 170 project participants recognised.
Speaking at the event Joan McGinn, Chief Executive, said "Our Annual Awards recognise the fantastic progress and achievements of participants who work exceptionally hard to get paid employment, complete qualifications and overcome barriers to progression...
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Jayne’s Story

Participant Story

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to have the perfect career, just ask Jayne! When she was recently interviewed for a video about her job with the Ramada by Wyndham, in Belfast, she was asked, “What do you enjoy most about working here?”, she paused, smiled and then replied, “Everything, I enjoy everything.” Jayne has always had a positive attitude, and this was clear from...
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Jordan’s Story

Participant Story

It’s been an incredible year for Jordan since securing his first paid job in August 2017 with Spar/Hendersons. His success has been the culmination of over a year’s hard work on our ESF funded Ignite2 project. Participating on the Ignite2 project provided Jordan with the opportunity to sample work experience within Orchardville’s employability hubs, with local employers as well as undertaking OCN accredited training. All tailored towards his agreed development and inclusion goals.
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Titanic Takeover

News Story

In November nine participants from Orchardville’s ESF funded Ignite2 project had the opportunity to stage a ‘Museum Takeover’ at one of the world’s leading visitor attractions, the iconic Titanic Belfast! On ‘Takeover Day’ participants were paired with a ‘shipmate’ mentor, to take over operations across the exhibition’s Visitor Experience, Hospitality, Photographic, Learning and Retail departments, with all participants receiving Titanic Belfast’s bespoke “Five Skills to Five Star” training and Health and Safety preparation beforehand.
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Natasha’s Story

Staff Story

Natasha started working with Orchardville as a Vocational Mentor based in The Orchard Cafe in April 2015. During that time she has worked directly with over 50 participants with a learning disability or autism, helping each improve their skills in preparation for the world of work. One of the most challenging but rewarding aspects of her role is balancing her mentoring of participants with the demands of working in a busy community café.
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Conor’s Story

Participant Story

For as long as Conor can remember he has had a passion for fitness and the leisure industry. Upon leaving school he attended work placements at Queen’s PEC and Templemore Baths and with the help of Orchardville’s employment service secured part time paid employment at Templemore. A referral to Workable NI (WNI) then followed and with the support of his Employment Officer, Conor gradually increased his weekly hours and now works full time at ‘the Baths’!
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Louise’s Story

Staff Story

‘The most enjoyable part of my job is that every day is different. Every day brings different people, different activities and different challenges to overcome. This means you never have the chance to be bored.’ Working as a Community Inclusion and Progression Support Worker in Orchardville’s Bangor office may sound complex, but as Louise admits ‘the job itself is easier to explain!’
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At work in the Orchard Café, Belfast

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