DCG Success Stories

Derby College Group’s work experience students are a ‘massive help’ to staff at Steps Derby, the community hub for adults with learning difficulties.

The service, which aims to help members gain greater independence and lead more fulfilling lives, has been taking level 2 Health and Social Care students on short term placement for several years now.

Emily Hill, Steps Derby managing director said: “The DCG students are a massive help. They learn so much while they’re with us and it’s great to see the way they engage and speak with the members who use our services.

“It shows they’ve been exposed to good practice by our staff and taken on board what they’ve been shown.

“Many of the students tell us they’re sad to leave when their placement ends. We’re sorry to see them go too but it’s nice to know they’ve enjoyed their time with us.”

For some students though the goodbye is only temporary as they return to Steps Derby in the holidays to do paid casual work.

Emily added: “They love to be invited back as it confirms they’re doing well and for 16 and 17 year-olds it’s nice to have the chance to earn their own money. We’ve also had former students who’ve worked for us on a relief basis for up to a year after leaving college.”

Steps Derby, which currently caters for adults aged from 18 to 40, has use of a building at the Moorways Stadium in Derby and also has a hub and café at its former home in St Martin’s Church, Allenton.

Members get chance to learn life skills at the hub, assisting the chef and serving customers at the centre’s regular luncheon club.

Through its links with Everyone Active, Steps Derby offers members a wide range of sporting activities, including swimming, football on Moorways’ astro turf pitches and steps classes in the gym.

In addition, members can attend a local boxing club and play bowls at Chaddesden Bowling Club. They also enjoy escorted trips into town and to the cinema and the theatre.

Steps Derby has a team of five qualified staff including Emily and currently takes up to 17 members on any one day. Emily added: “We like to get out and about in the community.

“We’ve been to Harry Potter World recently and we’re off to see the Mary Poppins show in August as well as going on another day trip to London.

“Derby College students are such a big help on days out and at our weekly dancing sessions. To work with our members, they first have  to be DBS checked which gives them a great sense of responsibility.

“It’s a pleasure to work alongside the students and to watch them gain confidence and use their own initiative when it comes to activities. We also see them expand their communication skills with the adults throughout their time here.”