A REDDITCH man with learning difficulties has found work for the first time in nearly 30 years – thanks to the support of a local community initiative.
Gary, aged 50 and from Redditch, plucked up the courage to apply for a work placement at Starlight Café, part of the Starlight Centre in Charford, Bromsgrove.
His placement has now been extended into the autumn and he is hoping for a permanent position helping out at the café, where he cleans and tidies, greets customers and serves food and drinks.
“It is my first job since 1989,” said Gary. “I used to work in a garden centre but found it difficult and couldn’t do it. But I really like it here.”
Darran Moore, café manager, said Gary was a real asset to the organisation.
“Gary first came along to the craft group we run here, and asked if he could have a job. We worked together with him and his support worker from Worcestershire County Council and he started a voluntary position with us one day a week.
“He has really grown in confidence in the weeks since joining us.”
The centre and café is owned and managed by Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (BDHT)
