Published on: 27 August 2025
Hard work, dedication and a little help from NHS England Choices College in South Tyneside has paid off for Dan Martin, who’s just landed a full-time role at Choice.
Dan, from South Shields, joined the team at Choice following a six-month placement.
Choice is a subsidiary company of South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust. It works closely with NHS England Choices College. The specialist college provides a supported internship study programme that helps young people with learning disabilities, difficulties and autism find work.
Starting with just four half-days a week, Dan quickly proved himself, growing in confidence and becoming a key part of the team. Dan said:
“I worked hard and stuck with it. The best part was getting the phone call to say I had passed the interview. That made it all worth it.”
Dan’s job involves delivering medical supplies to hospital wards. He helps make sure each ward has what it needs and handles urgent deliveries when needed. Around Christmas, things get even busier with extra orders.
His supervisor, Liam Watson, has seen Dan develop his abilities and skill. Liam said:
“Dan is brilliant. He is usually the first one in and just gets on with the job. At first, he needed support, but now he takes the lead. He knows the layout better than I do sometimes.”
"It is a great pathway. When there is a job at the end of it, like in Dan’s case, it is totally worth it. He is a valued member of the team.”
Emily Childerstone, Area Manager at Choices College, explained:
“Dan’s positive attitude has been evident in his placement. He is reliable, hard-working and professional."
“We’re delighted that he has been offered a job that will develop his skills and strengthen his independence. Congratulations Dan!”
Dan’s journey is a great example of how NHS-supported internship study programmes, such as Choices College, can help young people build real careers. With the right support and effort, Dan has turned a placement into a bright future.
Dan is excited about the future and hopes to grow in his role. He said:
“I’ve learned a lot and enjoyed being part of the team. It feels good to come in each day knowing I’m helping and making a difference."
“I am happy where I am and excited for the future. Being here gives me lots of opportunities.”
Choice, which is a subsidiary company of South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust provides estates and facilities management services as well as pharmacy and procurement services. Find out more here: https://www.choicesunderland.co.uk/
Discover Choices College here: https://www.hee.nhs.uk/our-work/choices-college-supported-internships
