Praise for project helping young with learning disabilities overcome barriers to employment

By Iain MacDonald22nd June 2016News Northern IrelandBelfast, Learning Disabilities, News Northern Ireland, Young People / Youth Work, Youth Work

Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister Simon Hamilton has paid tribute to the commitment of young people with learning disabilities in overcoming barriers to employment.

Speaking at a prize giving ceremony for young people from Dr B’s Kitchen in Belfast, Simon Hamilton said: “My Department is committed to assisting people overcome their personal barriers to social inclusion and employability. Every young person, regardless of whether or not they have a disability, must have the opportunity to gain sustained and meaningful employment.

“It is therefore inspiring to see how Dr B’s Kitchen has, over the last 25 years, shown that when barriers are removed for our young people with learning disabilities, they are more than capable of making an equal and vital contribution in all aspects of society.”

Paying tribute to the work of Dr B’s Kitchen, the Minister continued: “This evening’s event is a fitting reward for the efforts of staff and trainees alike, and the achievements being rightfully recognised today show just what is possible when hard work, determination and application receive the right support.”

Dr B’s Kitchen project is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014 – 2020 and the Department for the Economy.

_{Pictured (l-r) ?Clare McCaughey, Manager Dr B’s Kitchen, IFEX 2016 Gold award winner Lauren McCracken, Economy Minister Simon Hamilton and Dr B Trainee, Harry Tighe.}