Alex Ingram, at just 21 years old, has already overcome significant barriers to employment.
Living with autism, Alex, who lives in Kidlington, has faced challenges in securing and sustaining work, until he connected with Oxfordshire County Council’s Supported Employment programme.
With guidance from the council’s Employment Advisor, Linda Walker, and the backing of a supportive employer in Kidlington, Alex was offered a full-time role in a warehouse at Savona Food Service.
The company was so impressed after meeting him that they created a daytime position specifically for Alex, having previously only offered night shifts.
Linda worked closely with both Alex and Savona to ensure a smooth transition into the workplace. Since joining, Alex has flourished; growing in confidence and recently achieving a major milestone: earning his forklift truck licence.
Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “This is what Supported Employment is all about.
“It’s not just about helping someone into a job ‒ it’s about recognising their strengths, supporting their growth, and working with employers to create opportunities that change lives.
“Alex’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved through purposeful collaboration and tailored support.”
Darren Holloway, Director of Central Operations at Savona Food Service, said: “It’s been fantastic having Alex join the team. His enthusiasm, reliability, and willingness to learn have made a real impact.
“We were so impressed by his attitude and potential that we created a role specifically for him – and he’s exceeded all expectations.
“Watching Alex grow in confidence and achieve his forklift licence has been a proud moment for all of us. He’s a valued member of the team, and his journey is a brilliant example of what inclusive employment can achieve.”
Oxfordshire County Council offers a range of supported employment services for individuals with disabilities, long-term health conditions, and other barriers to paid work.
In the past 12 months alone, Oxfordshire Employment has helped 52 people into paid roles, with 60% remaining in work for at least six months, a strong indicator of the programme’s long-term impact.
The council’s employment service has been awarded the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) accreditation, placing it among the UK’s leading providers of inclusive employment support.
Alex’s success highlights the power of collaboration between employment services and inclusive employers, and how tailored support can unlock potential and transform lives.
Find out more about Oxfordshire Employment and how it could support you or someone you know.
