A Rhondda Cynon Taf resident who began his employment journey through a supported placement at Vision Products has now secured a permanent role and is helping others take their first steps into work.
Jake Llewellyn joined the Council’s Work and Skills programme in September 2024, where he received one-to-one mentoring support tailored to his needs. Supported by Employment Mentor, Rachel Wilkins, Jake was given the encouragement and guidance to explore his strengths and prepare for the world of work. At the time, Jake was managing dyslexia and awaiting an autism assessment, and the tailored support helped him to build confidence while continuing to pursue his ambitions.
As part of his development, Jake completed a Retail course, as well as Life Skills and Interview training. With ongoing support, he began to develop the confidence and resilience needed to take the next step towards employment.
Meanwhile, the Work and Skills team were piloting six-month paid placements across a range of roles within the Council. Recognising Jake’s potential, his mentor introduced him to an opportunity within the Refurb Department at Vision Products, where returned community equipment – such as crutches, walking frames, recliner chairs, beds and hoists – are cleaned, refurbished and prepared for reuse in the community.
Following a successful interview, Jake secured the placement and quickly became a valued member of the team. His commitment was clear from the outset, travelling independently each day by bus and on foot to make the opportunity work. With support from a Job Coach and the Work and Skills In-Work Support Mentor, Jake learned new skills, grew in confidence and built a strong understanding of his role and responsibilities.
After his initial placement came to an end, Jake’s hard work paid off when he secured a 12-month paid traineeship with Vision Products. During this time, he developed his skills, working with a wider range of equipment including more complex items such as recliner chairs and beds.
Jake has since secured a permanent role within the Refurb Department and has taken on additional responsibility as a Job Coach, supporting two members of staff and helping the next cohort of trainees gain confidence and skills in the workplace.
Speaking about his journey, Jake Llewellyn said: “I am so pleased I have a permanent role at Vision Products. I am looking at starting my English GCSE online. The Job Coach role is helping me to build my skills. I have my eye on the supervisor’s role!”
Vision Products is a supported business which is part of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council. It provides support, training and employment opportunities for disabled people, while delivering a range of services for residents and customers – including daily living aids, mobility products, community equipment services, assistive technology, and high-quality PVCu windows and doors.
As a Disability Confident Leader, Vision Products supports disabled adults to overcome barriers to employment, gain skills and qualifications, and progress in their careers through tailored workplace support and adjustments.
Additionally, through the Work and Skills Programme residents are supported to build confidence, develop employability skills and access meaningful opportunities. Together, the programme and Vision Products are helping to create inclusive routes into employment, while supporting services that make a practical difference to people across Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Jake’s journey is a powerful example of how inclusive employment, tailored support and meaningful opportunities can help people build confidence, develop skills and reach their potential. It also reflects the wider aims of the Council’s Transforming RCT campaign by showing how Council services are improving everyday opportunities, supporting independence and helping communities to thrive.
Councillor Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Social Care, said: “Jake’s story is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when people are given the right support and opportunities to succeed.
“Through the Work and Skills programme and the support provided by Vision Products, Jake has not only secured permanent employment but is now helping others to develop their skills and confidence too.
“Jake’s journey is also a reminder of the talent, ambition and contribution disabled people bring to our workplaces and communities, and the importance of creating inclusive environments where everyone is supported to thrive.
“This is exactly what Transforming RCT is about – making a real difference to people’s lives, supporting independence and creating opportunities that help residents and communities thrive.”
The Transforming RCT campaign focuses on the people, places and services helping residents to live, learn, work and thrive both now and in the future. Find out more: Transforming RCT - Investment now and for the future
For more information on Vision Products and their traineeship scheme, please contact:
Vision Products
Unit 2 Green Park, Coedcae Lane Industrial Estate, Pontyclun, CF72 9GP
Phone: 01443 229 988
Email: visionproductsbusiness@rctcbc.gov.uk
Web: https://www.rctcbc.gov.uk/EN/GetInvolved/VisionProducts/Home.aspx
Posted on 16/09/2026