New approach to recruitment leads to award success for young Gainsborough man

A 19-year-old man from Gainsborough with autism who struggles with communicating with others has been highly commended in the National Egg and Poultry Awards, thanks to the support from his employer, Noble Foods.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Adam Stainton, who attended Aegir Specialist Academy, was nominated in the young processor of the year category.

He was presented with his award by Noble Foods CEO, Duncan Everett, at a special event held at the factory.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Adam is a young man with autism and struggles with very low confidence both socially and academically.

Amanda Bouttell, Richard Wood, Scott Eley, Simon Wilson, Coun Angela Lawrence, Alex Nightingale, Duncan Everett, Vicky Hand, Adam Stainton, Kirsty Black and Suzanne StaintonAmanda Bouttell, Richard Wood, Scott Eley, Simon Wilson, Coun Angela Lawrence, Alex Nightingale, Duncan Everett, Vicky Hand, Adam Stainton, Kirsty Black and Suzanne Stainton
Amanda Bouttell, Richard Wood, Scott Eley, Simon Wilson, Coun Angela Lawrence, Alex Nightingale, Duncan Everett, Vicky Hand, Adam Stainton, Kirsty Black and Suzanne Stainton

Despite these challenges, he’s highly motivated with a desire to work, to help support his mum with the family finances and to have his own independence.

HR Business Partner, Kirsty Black, contacted Adam’s school to enquire if the company could provide employment for any of their students leaving the school and Adam, a recent graduate of Lincolnshire County Councils SEND Employment Support programme, was put forward.

Kirsty said: “Adam had an initial look around the processing plant on Corringham Road and took some time to think about which department he would like to work in.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Adam surprised school staff as initially, it was thought the packing department may have been a better fit for him but Adam was most interested in the Butchery department despite it being a busier environment.”

Mariusz Haglauer, production manager, said: “I wasn’t sure how Adam would get on when he first started with us but he is now learning to work in different areas of the department.

"He is doing a great job and we’re proud to see him developing.”

Adam’s Mum, Suzanne has seen a real difference in Adam since he started work and cannot speak highly enough of the support Adam has been given.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

She said: “I was dreading Adam leaving school but Noble have been amazing.

"He is always coming home from work and saying how much he enjoys it and how he has been supported.”

Coun Angela Lawrence, chairman of West Lindsey District Council, said: “Well done to everyone at Noble Foods for this fantastic example of work place inclusion.”