Shelby began a Supported Internship with Sleepeezee in November 2024 and, in just a few months, has shown incredible dedication and growth. Her commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed – not only has she expanded her skills and confidence, but she has also increased her working hours to match the regular shift pattern at Sleepeezee, now working more than 30 hours a week.

As part of the Divan and Headboards team, Shelby has taken on new tasks including cutting fabrics, making wings for headboards, and keeping button supplies stocked. Her can-do attitude and willingness to take on responsibility has impressed everyone around her.

Now, from 1st April 2025, Shelby is officially a paid employee at Sleepeezee!

 

"I am happy that bemix found me and placement and I'm happy that Sleepeezee has given me a chance!"

 

Sarah Foster-Mason, HR Manager at Sleepeezee, shared:

“My first encounter with bemix was when I attended a Supported Internships event organized by Medway Council in February 2024. If I’m being honest, it was primarily out of curiosity. My initial reaction that morning as I listened to the speakers from both bemix and F2E was…it will never work in the Sleepeezee environment. I worried about the fast-paced nature of the factory and whether we would be able to give the young person(s) due attention. Then I heard the success stories from similar industries, and I am pleased to say that I’m glad I got talking to Sharon Duckworth from bemix and invited her to visit our factory in Rochester. The rest (as the saying goes) is history! Sharon and the team expertly addressed all my concerns and with on-site support from Sophie, we are very proud to now have Shelby as a confirmed member of the Sleepeezee family! Welcome aboard Shelby and we look forward to your continued progress and development. Thank you bemix and here’s to a continued partnership!”

 

 

Andy Swain, Senior Supervisor – Divan & Headboards at Sleepeezee, also shared:

“Shelby has adapted very well. I have been very impressed in the way that she’s tried to tackle every task that we assign to her. She’s come up leaps and bounds…no longer the shy Shelby we first met!! We are happy to have her on board and part of our team.”

And Shelby’s dad shared:

“Both Sophie (Shelby’s Supported Employment Specialist from bemix), bemix and Sleepeezee working together with Shelby, finding her weaknesses and strengths which has given her confidence in being able to work in such a working environment with a lot of people working around her. Without this internship and support Shelby would have struggled a lot more than she did.”

Shelby’s story shows the real impact of Supported Internships, and the power of believing in someone’s potential. We’re so pleased to share this exciting update and wish her all the best as she continues to thrive in her new paid role!

 

 

---

 

Are you thinking about the steps you will take after school or college?

Making plans for your future can feel like a lot - but you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

To find out more about joining a Supported Employment programme, click here.

To find out more about partnering with bemix as an employer in our Supported Employment programmes, click here.