A Liverpool-based charity service that supports people with learning disabilities, mental health concerns and autism into employment was a finalist at this year’s 3rd Sector Care Awards.
Vocational Support Service, which is part of national social care charity Community Integrated Care, was featured in the Citizenship category of the event.
They were named as one of the top 3 most successful services in UK for helping people with care needs to overcome the barriers to leading a full and ordinary life.
It recognised their incredible achievements in helping people to grow in independence through finding exciting paid and voluntary work opportunities.
The 3rd Sector Care Awards showcase innovation and excellence within the not-for-profit and care sectors.
Nationally, only seven per cent of people with learning disabilities are in paid employment.
Vocational Support is overcoming this by supporting 47 people across Liverpool and the North West to find work that reflects their talents, ambitions and life goals.
The organisation works with over 40 businesses, including Everton in the Community, Widnes Vikings rugby league club and Carla Lane Animals in Need, as well as national brands Tesco, ASDA and McDonald’s.
They both support businesses to host successful placements which help meet their commercial needs, and also develop placements that fulfil the talents and interests of the people they support.
Renata Davies, Service Manager of Vocational Support, said: “It was an absolute honour to be a Finalist at the 3rd Sector Care Awards.
“I’d like to thank our team, who work tirelessly to ensure that the people we support find work that is rewarding and enriching.
“I’d also like to thank all of the businesses who have backed us – their commitment helps us to create a more inclusive society, where people with support needs can fulfil their potential.”