This National Supported Internship Day, we are proud to celebrate the achievements of our interns, mentors, and colleagues who make supported internships such a powerful pathway into employment. Through our partnership with Choices College (formerly Project Choice) and Catcode Academy, young people with learning disabilities, difficulties, or autism are gaining meaningful work experience, building confidence, and discovering their potential within our organisation.
One of the most inspiring success stories is that of Dominic Cain, who graduated Project Choice in 2018 and has become the first graduate to step into the role of workplace mentor for new students completing internship placements in his workplace. Dom, who secured full‑time employment at the Trust and now works in the mailroom, is described as a role model to new students. Reflecting on his journey, Dom said:
“Project Choice gave me the chance to build a future I’m proud of. Now, as a mentor, I want to show new interns what’s possible and help them believe in themselves. If I can do it, they can too.”
Dom’s story highlights the long‑term impact supported internships can have, creating not only employment opportunities, but future mentors and leaders.
This year, we were delighted to welcome new interns from the Choices College Hartlepool cohort. Their placements span Portering, Stores, Ward Hostess, Domestics, and Catering across both of our hospital sites. Each intern has embraced their role with enthusiasm, with three students now travelling independently to North Tees Hospital via the shuttle bus and two recently securing interviews.
Dan: Finding His Future in Portering
Dan joined the Portering team in September 2025. Unsure at first which placements to try, he gave Portering a chance and quickly found his place. He enjoyed his first term so much that he asked to stay for a second placement, and the team were delighted to have him.
Dan now confidently transports patients, replenishes clinical stock, collects sharps boxes, and supports a wide range of daily tasks. His confidence and independence have grown enormously, and he now has a clear career path. He hopes his recent interview will lead to employment within the department.
Ben: Growing in Skill and Confidence
Ben has completed placements on wards 30 and 31, supporting staff with refreshment orders, meal delivery, and general cleaning. He is now working in the Tees Restaurant, where he clears tables, replenishes stock, checks food temperatures, and supports the catering team.
His mentor, Catering Team Leader Cindy, shared:
“Ben is a lovely young man. He is happy to try any task given. It has been a pleasure to work with Ben; we have enjoyed your smile and your happy attitude on the ward!”
Ben has now completed two interviews, approaching both with maturity and preparation. His confidence continues to grow with every new challenge.
Kyran: Building Skills and Strong Connection
Kyran began his placement at Hartlepool Hospital alongside Tracy, Ward Host, supporting with snack restocking and refreshments. He then worked with former intern, and now NTH Solutions employee, William, who mentored him through cleaning tasks and helped build his confidence.
Known for his cheeky sense of humour, politeness, and punctuality, Kyran has made a strong impression. His manager, Sally Stephenson, shared that he has “come on loads since starting in September” and always brings positive energy to the team.
Kyran is now working with Dave Maiden, who has become a firm favourite. Kyran enjoys helping with recycling and rubbish collection and says he enjoys this role very much.
Nickie, Area Manager for Choices College staff shared her appreciation for the Trust’s commitment:
“NTH Solutions take pride in creating supportive, welcoming environments across catering, domestics, portering, and other departments. Our teams work collaboratively to understand each young person, their strengths, challenges, and interests so that every placement feels meaningful and tailored. By offering patience, encouragement, and genuine care, we help interns build confidence, discover new abilities, and feel part of a real team.
“Their commitment goes far beyond providing work experience. They aim to nurture independence, self‑esteem, and a sense of belonging. The growth we see in our young people is a testament to the dedication of the staff, and we are incredibly proud of the difference they make each year. A heartfelt thank you to every colleague who supports our interns, you make this programme possible.”
Catcote Academy Students Thrive Through Hospital Work Placement Programme
As well as Choices College, we also work with Catcote Academy, who are proud to celebrate the ongoing partnership with NTH Solutions at North Tees and Hartlepool Hospital, which has now been running successfully for nearly two years.
This valuable programme offers Sixth Form students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a real working environment within the NHS. Each cohort, consisting of up to six students, take part in a structured 12-week placement. During this time, students rotate every four weeks across a variety of hospital departments, including portering, the mail room, café services, linen and mattresses, the medical equipment library, and domestic cleaning.
These rotations allow students to develop a broad understanding of the many essential roles that keep a hospital running smoothly. More importantly, they gain invaluable employability skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, and adaptability.
The experience has proven to be highly beneficial in building students’ confidence and independence, while also helping them to make informed decisions about their future career pathways.
Jackie McGarry, Careers Lead at Catcote Academy, shared her appreciation:
“Huge thanks to all the staff who have supported our students, made them feel so welcome, and encouraged them throughout. Their support has been instrumental in helping our students build confidence and make informed decisions about their future career options.”
We look forward to continuing these fantastic partnerships and providing even more opportunities for our students to learn, grow, and succeed.
