A group of interns have successfully graduated from a 36-week work experience programme at University Hospital Crosshouse.

East Ayrshire's "Project SEARCH" aims to help young people with learning disabilities and those on the autistic spectrum find and keep a job.

The eight interns embarked on the 800-hour placement, and gained practical experience in a number of areas of the hospital.

They were placed in real life work environments and took part in regular progress meetings to define their career goal and plan necessary steps to achieve it.

Human resources director, Patricia Leiser said: "It's always wonderful to see the Project SEARCH interns graduate with us.

"The experience and skills they gain during their placements is a great boost to their confidence and very often helps them to gain employment.

"We are proud to be a part of such a successful, inclusive project."