Emily achieves her dream job with Discovery supported employment

We are proud to have supported Emily Gold to achieve her dream of becoming a swimming teacher.

Emily, who we support in Somerset, qualified as a swimming instructor after completing her training at 1610 Trinity Sports and Leisure Centre in Bridgwater, Somerset. Discovery’s supported employment team worked with Emily and the employer to make practical adjustments during her training, including breaking down learning materials and reducing jargon so she could demonstrate her skills and knowledge.

The support was coordinated by Kirsteen Middleton, Supported Employment Coordinator at Discovery, with oversight from Shona Howes, Discovery’s Employment Manager.

Emily’s story has been featured by the BBC, highlighting how the right support and flexible employers can open up paid, sustainable work for autistic people and people with learning disabilities.

Read the full BBC article on Emily Gold.

BBC Somerset also broadcast a radio report about Emily and Discovery’s supported employment work on Friday 2 January 2026.

Find out more about Discovery’s supported employment initiative.

Discovery is part of Dimensions, and supports autistic people and people with learning disabilities throughout Somerset and Cornwall.