A new partnership providing work experience for adults with learning difficulties has been announced by The Halston and People First in Carlisle.

People First is an independent advocacy organisation that has worked in Cumbria for over 25 years.

It provides job training for people with learning difficulties, including hospitality at its Conference Centre on Milbourne Street.

The partnership with The Halston will help expand People First’s work experience placement offerings and give people with learning difficulties broader experience in the hospitality trade, increasing their confidence and developing new skills.

Dominque Harrison, one of the directors of The Halston, said: "One of the rewarding elements of my job is seeing the personal development of individual team members, seeing their assurance grow and they employ the skills they have learnt along the way.

"By working with People First we hope to help individuals with potential to overcome some of the challenges they may have entering employment.

"As business owners we can help change negative perceptions by setting good examples and investing in people, because they are the frontline and the ambassadors for our industry."

Those taking part in the placement scheme also have the opportunity to work towards an employment qualification.

People First said the partnership with The Halston will provide the chance for job coaches to carry out assessment methods in subjects including serving food and drink, health and safety for work and customer service.