A wheelchair user has secured a job through a new employment support scheme.
Tom Bucknell, who lives in Bicester, has become the inaugural individual to find work via Oxfordshire’s Connect to Work programme. The initiative assisted him in obtaining a position as a customer services officer at Oxfordshire County Council following the end of his prior contract with an NHS Foundation Trust.
Mr Bucknell remarked that he constantly has to consider matters that others do not even register.
This creates internal and mental health obstacles alongside physical limitations.
The programme directed him through the Jobcentre in Banbury, where employment adviser Courtney Bateman delivered tailored support.
Ms Bateman helped him identify his strengths, search for suitable vacancies, complete application forms, and attend interviews alongside him.
Mr Bucknell noted that having someone advocating for him proved invaluable.
When he received the job offer, he felt truly proud, as though someone had finally recognised his capabilities.
He simply felt wonderful. He had accomplished it. He completed a full working day, which proved intensely liberating.
Three weeks into the role, Mr Bucknell is already effectively handling customer communications and administering congestion charge permit requests.
His employment adviser described him as reliable, tenacious, and exceptionally motivated.
Rho Marinari, Mr Bucknell’s line manager at Oxfordshire County Council, observed that working with Tom and the Connect to Work programme has been an entirely positive experience.
The support they provided equipped Tom to take on the role with confidence, and they have been delighted to assist with his settling in.
Maintaining an inclusive and supportive workplace is vital for all staff members, and they aim to help their colleagues flourish.
Mr Bucknell also expressed gratitude to his wider support system.
He stated that he could not thank Courtney sufficiently for all her assistance and wished to thank his manager Rho alongside Richard Merritt for their constant encouragement.
This has made a significant impact as he begins this fresh phase.
Councillor Tim Bearder, cabinet member responsible for adult social care at Oxfordshire County Council, commented that Tom’s accomplishment represents something they take tremendous pride in.
Witnessing the very first individual supported through Connect to Work already flourishing in their new position proves both motivating and uplifting.
This precisely matches the programme’s intended purpose: assisting individuals confronting genuine obstacles in discovering their capabilities and transitioning into fulfilling employment.
Connect to Work assists individuals with disabilities, health conditions, or other employment challenges, providing complimentary and customized guidance to secure and maintain positions.
The programme aligns with the county council’s dedication to enhancing residents’ self-reliance under The Oxfordshire Way strategy.
Residents may refer themselves or be referred by an existing partner organisation.