M&S Dundee Colleague And Carer Honoured At Pride Of Scotland Awards

Marks & Start graduate, Shane Lee is this year's recipient of the Pride of Scotland King's Trust Young Achiever Award 26-year old Dundee Man balances caring for his older brother and retail career to win Pride of Scotland Young Achiever Award Shane Lee, a talented young man from Dundee who is autistic, has been recognised with the prestigious Pride of Scotland King's Trust Young Achiever Award. A valued member of the M&S Dundee team and a graduate of the Marks & Start employability programme, Shane has inspired colleagues and customers alike with his dedication and positivity since joining the store last year. This latest honour adds to his growing list of achievements. Shane, 26, lives with his Gran and older brother, whom he also supports as a carer. For years, he believed that his autism and lack of work experience would prevent him from ever finding employment. He also worried about how a job might affect his ability to care for his brother, who has cerebral palsy. That changed when Shane connected with The King's Trust, a charity working with M&S to provide vital work experience opportunities to young adults who face barriers to enter the workplace. Despite initial reservations, Shane impressed his caseworker with his determination and was invited to attend a taster day. His enthusiasm and positive energy wowed both the King's Trust staff and M&S management. Shane's success during the day earned him a place on the four-week programme, where his natural flair for customer service quickly made him a favourite among shop regulars. M&S is delighted to offer him a contract at the end of the programme and is even more thrilled to make him a permanent member of their team. His success and impact didn't go unnoticed-Shane was recently honoured with a Pride of Scotland Award, celebrating his courage, resilience, and incredible journey into employment. His Young Achiever Award is an addition to the Rising Star Award he received last year, highlighting that Shane continues to work hard and go the extra mile for customers. Shane said: "A few years ago, I never imagined I could get a job. I have autism, so I thought I wouldn't have the confidence or the skills needed to do a job justice. "I knew I could take on responsibility because I help out my Gran and brother at home - with the cooking or cleaning and things like that. Still, it just seemed like without the right skills for the workplace, no one would be interested in me. But I was very determined and now I have my dream job. "I'm just so proud of myself and how far I've come. I really appreciate everything The King's Trust and M&S has done for me. I know that my family is proud of me, and that means so much." Louise Goodlad, Director for Scotland at The King's Trust, said: "Shane is a fantastic example of what young people in Scotland can achieve when they are given the confidence and tools to succeed. Shane has overcome so many barriers to get to where he is now, and should be incredibly proud of everything he has achieved. "It is great to be able to celebrate our partnership with M&S and the Marks & Starts programme, which continues to create positive outcomes for young people throughout Scotland." Mary Power, Store Manager at M&S Dundee, said: "Shane has become an invaluable member of our team. His positive attitude and commitment shine through every day, earning the respect of colleagues and the appreciation of our customers. We're all incredibly proud of his achievements and delighted to have him on board." - END - Notes to EditorsFor further information or interview opportunities, please contact: m&[email protected] More information about The King's Trust is available at kingstrust.org.uk/ or on 0800 842 842. About The King's Trust The King's Trust believes that every young person should have the chance to succeed, no matter what their background or the challenges they are facing. We help those from disadvantaged communities and those facing the greatest adversity by supporting them to build the confidence and skills to live, learn and earn. The courses offered by The Trust help young people aged 11-30 to develop essential life skills, get ready for work and access job opportunities. We support them to find work because having a job or running a business can lead to a more stable, fulfilling life. Since The Trust was founded by HM The King in 1976, when he was HRH The Prince of Wales, we have helped more than a million young people across the UK. Three in four of those we supported over the last five years have moved into work, education or training. As we look to the future, we are pleased to have announced our intention to change our name to The King's Trust, reflecting our Founder's continued dedication to our work. We remain committed to enabling even more young people to create a better future for themselves and, by helping them today, know the benefits will be felt for years to come - not just for those we support, but for their communities and the wider economy. 27 Jun 2025 2025 Charity & Community Regional