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Marks & Start

Marks & Start is Marks & Spencer's flagship community programme and is part of their 5 year, 100 point 'Plan A' which addresses environmental and social issues. Marks & Start gives the opportunity of work experience to people of different ages and walks of life, helping them get ready to access the world of work. Placements are offered to disabled people, homeless people, young unemployed and lone parents.

DisabledGo is working in partnership with Marks & Spencer to deliver the programme to disabled people.

Between April 2010 and March 2011, there will be 150 work experience placements on offer to disabled people. Placements will take place at stores across the UK.

For details of stores running placements, please go to participating stores.

What do we offer?

• A four-week work experience placement to find out more about the world of retailing;
• An Introductory Session to introduce the participant to the store prior to the work placement;
• Employability skills such as building self-esteem and confidence, communication, work and life balance;
• A reference (on request);
• A uniform (if appropriate), travel costs and meals while at work;
• A 'buddy' to show the participant the ropes and offer support;
• A coach to assess the participant as part of the recruitment process;
• A final review to agree a 'next steps' action plan.

"After recovering from depression, I desperately wanted to return to permanent work but my medical history was a major barrier - I couldn't even get an interview. I became very disheartened. Things really started to change for the better when I was offered the placement with Marks & Spencer." - Karen, Edinburgh (2006)

"I just needed a break from a good employer, like Marks & Spencer, where they will take into account that I have got a disability but it doesn't mean that I can't work." - Carl, South London (2007).

"I'm really happy. My confidence has grown no end through interacting and working with customers and colleagues, I particularly like working on the tills as I like the customer contact. My colleagues are a really nice bunch of people and have been really supportive." - Adam, Chelmsford. (2007).

"My life has changed loads since this work placement. I can honestly say that I feel happy again, and I'm really happy that at last I have been given an opportunity. Believe me, I deserve it after all the job applications I have made over the last year. I guess my determination has helped though. I'm now earning my own money and I just feel that I can enjoy life again." - James, Bexleyheath. (2007).