Two training organisations are urging businesses to employ more people with disabilities following the award of a major accolade.

Minstead Trust and Smart Training & Recruitment, which work together to help people gain employment, have spoken out after latter was recognised as a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader.

Disability Confident is a government attempt to encourage employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with health conditions.

Minstead Trust and Smart Training are helping dozens of people to enter the jobs market. Last year, 15 apprentices and trainees began work in roles including chefs, waiters, and baristas.  

The two organisations are determined to tackle the chronically low levels of employment among people with learning disabilities.

One of the people who have already benefitted is 29-year-old Josh Starks.

He said: "I have wanted to be a chef for a while and I started an apprenticeship in 2022. I helped with the jam and chutney making, but also making hot lunches and sandwiches. 

"I’ve learnt basic skills, done my coursework, and completed my 18-month apprenticeship with a 30- question exam - I got a distinction for that. 

"I then went for a chef position at a local pub, did a trial shift, and got the job. 

"I felt happy. I’ve wanted to be a chef since I was 13. I was pleased with myself, the future’s looking good."

Chris Hillman, head of employability and apprenticeships at Minstead Trust, added: "I am delighted to hear the Smart Training & Recruitment have been awarded Disability Confident Leader Status (Level 3). 

"From our initial discussions to the blossoming partnership we have now, it has been clear that they are passionate about being inclusive and creating opportunities."

Jan Hopkinson, managing director of Smart Training, said: "Our journey with Minstead Trust spans more than ten years and, as an independent training provider, this has had a vital impact upon our delivery framework and our approach to disability and inclusivity. 

"I'm forever grateful to Minstead Trust for their commitment to changing lives and enabling Smart to deliver on the promise of making a positive difference to the future career prospects of their learners.

"We're all incredibly proud to be recognised as a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader."