From Trainee to Team Member: Sid’s Journey at Awen

At B-Leaf and Wood-B, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to develop skills, build confidence and achieve their goals. We focus on what trainees can do, not what they can't. Stories like Sid’s show just how powerful that opportunity can be.

Sid joined us as a trainee and has gone on to secure paid employment at Bryngarw Country Park, where he now welcomes visitors every Tuesday with a smile and serves great coffee from the café. His positive outlook is summed up in one simple but powerful statement: “I’m not going backwards, I’m going forward.”

Providing meaningful, paid employment opportunities is a key part of the support we offer through our partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council. For trainees like Sid, employment is about much more than earning a wage. It builds independence, confidence, social connections and a sense of purpose, helping people to realise their potential and play an active role in their community.

Sid’s success has been made possible through the dedication of colleagues including Jess and Emma, alongside the ongoing support of Dimensions UK. Their encouragement, guidance and belief in Sid have helped him take the next step on his journey.

We are incredibly proud of what Sid has achieved and of the positive impact that supported employment can have on people’s lives. If you're visiting Bryngarw Country Park on a Tuesday, be sure to stop by and say hello. You're guaranteed a warm welcome.

Video by Dimensions, who support autistic people and people with learning disabilities to live the life they choose.