Barnardo’s training scheme celebrated by Minister for Employment

The Minister for Employment and Learning Carmel Hanna has praised the work of charity Dr Barnardo’s in providing training and employment opportunities for young people with learning disabilities.

The Minister was visiting Dr B’s Kitchen in Belfast, which is funded by the European Social Fund, where she presented NVQ Level 1 and 2 in catering and the Essential Food Hygiene Certificates to trainees aged between 16 and 23 years.

Congratulating the 26 trainees, Mrs Hanna said: “This is a celebration of your success which has been achieved only by sheer hard work and dedication. This should serve as a real boost as you seek employment after you finish at Dr B’s.”

The Department of Employment and Learning offers assistance to those seeking jobs in the form of guidance through a Disablement Employment Adviser or funding from programmes such as Access to Work or Employment Support.

Paying tribute to Barnardo’s for their vision in setting up Dr B’s Kitchen 10 years ago the Minister said: “Barnardo’s hallmark has always been to serve the needs of the community. The staff in Dr B’s have shown tremendous commitment in running this restaurant and providing support to the trainees.

“As well as offering young people with learning disabilities training and work experience in a real working environment, they have gone that extra step in helping them find employment after they have completed their training.” (AMcE)