A success story

Lee’s success story.

Get Set for independence, how Lee took charge of his volunteering journey.

Get Set for Work | 16 July 2025

Lee Songer, lives in supported living in Braintree and is a very active individual and full of energy. He had a busy routine doing various activities and having previously volunteered his brother and House Manager thought he might enjoy doing this again and complete a referral to the Get Set for Work programme. 

It had been a while since Lee last volunteered, and he was excited at the prospect of having a voluntary job again.  Lee didn’t have a CV or much experience with interviews, but he was keen and ready to get back to it. Holly Bailey, Get Set for Work Consultant, started building Lee a CV that reflected his life, skills, and interests, from the activities he takes part in daily, the care he shows others at home and the unique qualities he could bring to a voluntary role. 

Holly and Lee met weekly at locations where Lee felt most comfortable, such as Costa or the local library, and talked through the various volunteering opportunities available to him.  Following a phone call with Lee’s brother, who shared insights into Lee’s personality and preferences, Holly learned that Lee enjoys speaking with older people and offering companionship. Holly contacted local care homes to explore potential opportunities and successfully arranged a visit and an interview for Lee at Bradbury House.

Lee attended the interview and answered the staff member’s questions with confidence and enthusiasm, even asking his own questions. Lee showed genuine interest, and talked about joining bingo sessions, helping with cleaning, and just being there for the residents.  

The team at Bradbury House were impressed with Lee’s potential, especially appreciating his friendly nature and willingness to support others. They loved the idea of him visiting regularly to keep residents’ company and help entertain them and Lee was offered a voluntary role on Friday afternoons. 

“Lee has engaged well with the Get Set for Work programme, never missing an appointment and was always on time. He wanted independence in searching for a voluntary position and we worked together to ensure he had the tools to do this.”

Holly Bailey, Get Set for Work Consultant

“I have enjoyed meeting up with Holly. I like having my CV and being able to hand it in to shops. I will keep doing this even when I am not seeing Holly.”

Lee, Get Set for Work participant

Get Set for Work is an inclusive support service delivered by Get Set UK on behalf of Essex County Council. The programme provides support services to adults with a learning disability and/or neurodiverse needs, living in Essex. 

Find out more about the Get Set for Work programme here

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