A Cedar service user, Marcus, has reflected on how working with our SkillSET employment support services helped him secure a part-time paid role that suited his individual needs.

At the start of his employment journey, Marcus was finding it difficult to get a job. But with the help of The Cedar Foundation and the SkillSET officer Breige Quinn, he has now secured employment. Breige provided Marcus with advice, interview skills and mentorship from October 2024 onwards. Marcus was keen to work in the Hospitality and Retail sector and earlier this year, he started a new part-time job at Hughes Food Hall in Camlough.

Gerard Hughes, co-owner of Hughes Food Hall, said that they “recognise the value of having a diverse workforce & would encourage other employers to consider supported employment as a way to meet their staffing needs”. Staff had the opportunity to meet with Marcus’ SkillSET Employment Officer and talk about how they could best support him in his new role.  “There were clear expectations from the outset, and we knew there was support in the background from Cedar if it was needed”. Marcus has been welcomed by the supportive team and is getting on well.

Speaking about his experiences in getting employment, Marcus says “At start of my employment journey I found it difficult to get a good job. However Cedar helped me get jobs in Hospitality and Retail, which I really enjoy. They gave me advice, interview skills and mentored me by helping me settle in my new jobs. It has been a really positive experience for me."

SkillSET is a new innovative programme of specialist employment preparation and training, for people with a disability / health condition who are economically inactive. Cedar is delivering the service across NI as part of a partnership of seven disability organisations. If you or someone you know could benefit from Cedar’s work and training services, click here to learn more.

Find out more about SkillSET services here: SkillSET | The Cedar Foundation