Jake's journey with Haringey Works

Nadir Alvis, the Specialist Employment Advisor at Haringey Works, is dedicated to supporting young people with learning difficulties and autism in securing meaningful employment and opportunities that aligns with their individual goals.

The service employs the supported employment model, forging partnerships to empower individuals with learning difficulties for sustainable, long-term employment while providing businesses with valuable and talented workers and volunteers.

Recently, we had the pleasure of meeting Jake, who shared his experience with Nadir's service.

I met Nadir in June this year (2023) when she sat with me and listened to everything I had to say. She was very helpful and patient and always seemed to get the best out of me. She took over from Lucy Edwards and assisted in coordinating my placement at London Zoo as a volunteer. Although there were challenges in confirming a start date, Nadir consistently communicated with the zoo. Eventually, the zoo start date of 2nd October this year was confirmed with Nadir's help. She always informed me about the progress, which was important to me. I was overjoyed with this news and excited to start as a volunteer at London Zoo. Nadir also helped me update my CV, which looks amazing and much better than before.

Initially, I was nervous when I started at London Zoo. Still, Nadir always reassured me that everything would be alright and that I would be supported there. She patiently helped me complete my application for a Freedom Pass for free travel, and she consistently updated me about courses and apprenticeships, including those offered at Haringey Works. She always has time to listen, and I genuinely look forward to our chats. Recently, she sent me some animal courses that she will help me apply for, as I love working with animals. I hope to continue progressing well into the future with her support.

The service is available to Haringey residents aged 18 to 34 and operates from the Autism Hub and in the community. For more information on how to be referred to the service, please email Nadir Alvis: nadir21.alvis@haringey.gov.uk

Photos by Jake at the London Zoo