Saffron’s Road to Independence and Employment with Now Group

Saffron was born at just 24 weeks gestation, weighing only 1lb 6oz. She spent 205 days in the Neonatal and Special Care Baby Units at The Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast. When she came home, she weighed 7lb 5oz, the equivalent of a newborn.

She faced significant medical challenges, including a tracheostomy, a feeding tube, low flow oxygen, and multiple airway surgeries including a tracheoplasty at the Royal Manchester Hospital. Her ENT consultant confirmed a semi-paralysed vocal cord, meaning she might never speak and could experience laryngospasms.

Saffron’s early years in mainstream primary school included countless hospital stays. After six months in mainstream secondary school, she received an Autism diagnosis and transferred to Beechlawn Special School, where her physical health improved and she enjoyed school and friends, though she still had no independence.

Saffron's mother discovered the Now Group, and on the same day of enquiry, Saffron received a call from Jennifer Hamill, her employment officer. This partnership became transformative, helping Saffron to develop her confidence and independence.

With regular meetings, Saffron planned goals and discussed work opportunities. She first enrolled in the PHA course in Lurgan, where she made new friends, and developed cooking and wellbeing skills. She also experienced her first independent use of public transport to South Lakes and challenged herself on a tunnel slide at Todd’s Leap, encouraged by Jennifer.

Ongoing support, CV building, and guidance prepared Saffron for her first interview, leading to paid temporary work in Price Integrity. Jennifer encouraged her to join a training academy with Marks and Spencer’s through the Now Group. Saffron completed Level 1 Customer Services, a 12-week placement at the Boulevard, Banbridge, and a neurotypical interview in Belfast, ranking first for future employment opportunities. Her growing confidence extended to independent driving after passing her car theory and practical tests.

Saffron secured a three-month contract in the food hall at Marks and Spencer’s Boulevard, embracing the role, initially contracted for 16 hours but consistently completing 27 hours weekly. She drives herself to work, chats confidently with customers and colleagues, and wears a permanent smile. Her next goal is to turn her temporary contract into a permanent position.

We are so proud of Saffron and everything she has achieved to date. To learn more on how NOW Group can support you into employment, visit www.nowgroup.org/training-jobs