Hotel for youngsters with autism set to open its doors
A hotel that offers hospitality training for young people with learning difficulties has given its first group of trainees permanent roles.
The Vault, formerly the River's Edge Hotel in Gateshead, is undergoing refurbishment and will reopen in May with 10 new permanent members of staff, all of whom have autism or learning difficulties. A further three will work elsewhere in the Camillus Care Group, owners of the Vault.
Those working in the hotel will take roles in the bar, kitchen, reception and as general assistants.
Holly Kelleher, centre manager at The Vault, said: "This is exactly what we are here to do. The trainees are getting valuable training and experience to ensure that they are eventually able to get paid employment in the hospitality industry and to prove they are a real asset to any workforce.
"We are delighted that we have been able to offer so many of them a proper job which will give them even more experience which can only help them going forward."
The hotel's Dukes Diner is currently open along with the function room, while the rest of the property will reopen fully in May.
The St Camillus Care Group has partnered with Gateshead College for the project to help the young people learn the skills they need for a career in hospitality.
It is currently seeking further sites to expand its operation and offer traineeships and internships for 18 to 24-year-olds with a range of learning difficulties.
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