Learning disabilities didn't hold Ben back from his dream job

BEN Shaxton had always wanted to work in the catering industry.

As a regular visitor to the Devon Hotel in Exeter with his parents, he used to watch the waiting staff and wish he could be part of the team.

He had been on a series of training courses through Devon County Council's Access to Employment scheme and was desperate to put his skills into practice.

Now, the 26-year-old, from Exwick, who has Down's Syndrome, has landed his dream job.

He is working as a conference and banqueting assistant at the Devon Hotel.

He told the Echo: "I used to come here with my family, which made me want to get my job.

"I lay the tables and serve customers and clear tables. I like it so much. I really like helping the guests and the staff here are really nice too.

"I am really happy here. I want to carry on doing this as long as I can."

Ben was employed by Brend Hotels four months ago. The company says he has fitted into the team really well and they are looking to increase his hours.

Hotel manager Katy Binns said: "He is getting on really well. He is good with the customers and his relationship with other staff is excellent.

"He always looks smart and he's always on time. Ben had a big range of skils in catering and had completed an NVQ and was definitely qualified to do the job so we took him on because of his merits and his education.

"We are hoping to increase his hours to possibly two days a week and seeing whether Ben is happy to help with wedding receptions in the summer.

She said the staff had really warmed to him.

"They love his brilliant sense of humour and want to help him improve his skills," she said.

One and a half million people in the UK have a learning disability. Of those, just 136,000 are in employment.

Last week, the Government launched a new employment strategy for people with a learning disability.

Valuing Employment Now recognises the challenges faced by people with a learning disability and aims to get more into employment by 2025.

Mencap spokesman Ismail Kaji, said: "Everyone should have the chance to have a career and a fulfilling life.

"Work is about having independence, learning new things, earning your own money and not having to rely on benefits. It means that you are not isolated at home."