BASILDON Hospital is leading the way in helping young people with learning disabilities or autism get on a career path.

Eligible students from South Essex College have been taking the next step into sustainable employment through internships at the regional hospital which serves Basildon and Thurrock.

The internships offer students real-life work experience where participants learn skills for independent living and a productive adult working life. The success of the initiative means it will expand to include 12 students each at Broomfield and Southend hospitals, while the Basildon programme is renewed. One of the students benefitting from the scheme is Ruby Shulver, who is supporting healthcare assistants (HCAs) on Lionel Cosin ward at Basildon Hospital. She says: "I want to have a career in healthcare, and the HCAs on the ward have been really helpful in teaching us, even when it's busy. If you like helping others, then this is for you." Elliott, who has been part of the portering team at the hospital, said: "My confidence has grown and I'm now thinking about career options I never would have considered before. Next month I'll start working in the pharmacy stores where I will deliver medicines. I'm really looking forward to it, although recognising all the names of different drugs will be confusing!"