Shortlisted for the Fiona Colley Trainee of the Year Award at the Springboard Awards for Excellence 2024

Alistair has autism and learning difficulties, which made it difficult for him to get a paid job and identifying a career. Despite years of volunteering, he still struggled to find work.

Growing up for Alistair was difficult, he was bullied by other kids because of his autism and sexuality. Alistair said “It made me feel very depressed. I didn’t want to eat. But I found my own way round my problems. I just started to open up to people about it, particularly my mum. I can tell her anything. I did my best not to let all the bullying get to me. I tried to turn it into a positive.”

Alistair never let this stop him. Since leaving school, one of his greatest achievements has been representing Scotland in gymnastics at the Special Olympics and winning a silver in the pommel horse and a bronze medal for the rings! Alistair’s determination and resilience has helped him overcome the obstacles he has faced in young life.

With persistent support and encouragement Alistair was encouraged to explore various career options including the possibility of setting up his own alternative spa therapy business before settling on a career in hospitality.

After being referred to Springboard, Alistair embarked on a 4-week training programme. Every day Alistair showed up on time with the dedication and willingness to learn. He even gave advice on fashion and all the group fell in love with his fashion sense!

With his new confidence Alistair lit up the room and made a full room of new friends Alistair completed workshops such as: confidence building, mental health and well-being, teamwork and communication, work mindset, CV and interview techniques. He also took part in practical training, customer service and a cocktail session – even making a cocktail for esteemed Hotelier Olga Polizzi when she visited the trainees while on the programme!

Alistair is now working at the Maldron Hotel, where he has embraced this position and taken up all the training and support Maldron offers.