Tanzie thrives at H&M Basingstoke, thanks to charity support

Tanzie Smith, 19, started working at H&M in Festival Place 15 months ago through the Down’s Syndrome Association’s (DSA) WorkFit programme.

The part-time role, which Tanzie balances alongside her studies at Sparsholt College and Inclusion College in Hook, is her first job.

Tanzie has been a perfect fit at H&M, with the job allowing her to channel her love for shopping, clothes, and organisation into a productive and fulfilling career.

"I love working at H&M so much," Tanzie said.

Tanzie Smith in front of H&M Basingstoke (Image: Newsquest)

READ MORE: Festival Place movement to create inclusive shopping experience

"I like buying clothes from there and also, I love working on the tills and doing the clear rail, like putting all of the clothes away. I got employee of the month in February. I won a gift card that I have not spent yet. I also won Area 3 employee of the month and got a theatre token and I went to see Starlight Express. It was incredible."

Sarah Clark, WorkFit Officer for the DSA, has been instrumental in securing Tanzie’s employment and supporting her throughout her journey.

She said: "Tanzie has grown in confidence and ability through her role. She is working as part of a team and is growing in confidence with talking to customers.

"Without the DSA WorkFit programme, it is unlikely that any employer would have chosen to employ Tanzie in a competitive market, where many teenagers are seeking part-time work. And yet, she has thrown herself into the role and shown that she can be a valuable member of the team."

Tanzie Smith when she became the employee of the month in February (Image: Newsquest)

As Tanzie continues her education, Sarah believes her experience at H&M will be invaluable in preparing her for a successful transition into the workplace.

"Any employer would be lucky to have her on their team due to the skills she has gained working for H&M, as well as her dedication and positive attitude to work," Sarah added.

The Down’s Syndrome Association, a national charity that receives no government funding, plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with Down’s syndrome to live full and rewarding lives.

To continue providing this essential support, Sarah will be taking on a monumental challenge: climbing Kilimanjaro in January 2025 to raise funds for the DSA.

The 10-day trek up Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters, will test the endurance of Sarah and her 14 fellow climbers, including Brit Award-winning rapper Aitch, a patron of the DSA.

Aitch, whose sister Gracie has Down’s syndrome, has been a passionate advocate for the cause, previously skydiving to raise funds and awareness.

Sarah’s climb will support vital services such as the DSA’s advice phone line, training and support, advocacy, activity and health promotion, resources, and Our Voice - a network of people who have Down’s syndrome that tells the DSA what they think about all aspects of their work.

She is inviting the community to support her efforts, either by donating directly to her fundraising page or by organising their own fundraising events.

Sarah Clark, the WorkFit officer for Down's Syndrome Association (Image: Newsquest)

SEE ALSO: A30 closed for extended period due to water leak in Hook

Every contribution will help ensure that more individuals like Tanzie can find meaningful employment and realize their potential.

To support Sarah’s Kilimanjaro climb and the Down’s Syndrome Association, donations can be made at Sarah’s fundraising page: downssyndrome.enthuse.com/pf/sarah-clarkkilimanjaro

For more information about offering employment opportunities to individuals with Down’s syndrome, visit downs-syndrome.org.uk.

Sarah can be contacted at sarah.clark@downs-syndrome.org.uk