THE latest batch of Borders interns arrived on ward last week as part of the highly successful Project SEARCH.

NHS Borders, Scottish Borders Council and Borders College teamed up in 2016 to introduce a pilot scheme for people with learning disabilities.

The one-year programme undertake work experience rotations within the Borders General Hospital and local community hospitals.

And throughout their internship the students will acquire competitive, transferable and marketable job skills as well as gain independence, confidence, and self-esteem.

Now into its third year, the scheme is going from strength to strength.

Rob McCulloch-Graham, chief officer for Health and Social Care at NHS Borders, told us: “Young people with a learning disability face many barriers to employment and Project SEARCH has been highly successful in being able to deliver opportunities throughout Scotland.

"It is fantastic that we are able to offer a series of good quality internships to young Borderers.

"We are delighted to welcome our third intake of interns and wish them all the best of luck in their placements.”

Last week Nicky Berry, associate director of nursing, was on hand to welcome the new interns.

Project SEARCH, which is a workplace alternative for students in high school or college, is open to anyone with a learning difficulty or autism between the ages of 17 and 24.