Amazon programme helps Bolton pair land jobs with the firm

Dean Knowles and Qayyum Wazir, both from Bolton, took part in the 10-month scheme at Amazon’s Bolton fulfilment centre.

The programme is designed for 16 to 24-year-olds.

Dean Knowles at his graduation ceremony with the Mayor of Bolton, Councillor David Chadwick (Image: Supplied)

Mr Wazir said: "I was used to Amazon delivery drivers dropping parcels off at our house, and when I saw them doing the job, I thought ‘I could do that’."

He said he has since worked across departments, including picking, packing and gift wrapping, and now works in stow, one of his favourite areas.

Mr Knowles said he was initially unsure about the transition from college to work but has since grown in confidence.

He said: "I didn’t always believe in myself.

"I wondered if I’d be able to cope with the huge change of moving from college into work.

"It really was a massive change for me.

"But I believe in myself now and I’ve gone from strength to strength whilst working at Amazon."

More than 160 young people have started internships with the company (Image: Supplied)

Their success was celebrated at a graduation ceremony attended by family, colleagues, and the Mayor of Bolton, Councillor David Chadwick.

Kirsty Matthews, CEO of DFN Project Search, said: "We are incredibly proud of Dean and Qayyum and all those completing their supported internships this year.

"Each and every one of our interns graduating has shown that with the right support and opportunities, young people with a learning disability, who are autistic, or both, can thrive in the workplace."

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Amazon’s supported internship programme launched in 2021 and expanded in 2023 through its partnership with DFN Project Search.

More than 160 young people have started internships with the company to date, with many going on to secure permanent employment.

Applications for the next intake in September are now open.

To apply for the programme via DFN Project Search, contact info@dfnprojectsearch.org.