AN ORGANISATION which helps adults with learning disabilities enter the world of work has been nominated in the Worcestershire Education Awards.

The Worcestershire branch of Mencap, based in Bromwich Road, Worcester, was nominated for the Special Education Needs (SENCO) award in recognition of the vital work the group does in offering a helping hand to those in need.

Mandy Kings, who nominated Mencap's Worcestershire Employment Service for the award, praised the organisation and said the staff always go “above and beyond.”

She said: “Mencap should win this award as they work above and beyond to help people with learning difficulties, to get into the workplace.

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“It isn't an easy task by any means, but they don't make it a problem.

“They have helped my son immensely, giving him confidence and self-worth after never getting a job. I couldn't recommend them enough.”

Charlotte Mitchell, a tutor said: “It feels amazing to be nominated. It’s really nice our parents feel that way about our service. We have worked really hard this past year so it’s nice to be recognised."

Mencap’s Lifestyles and Work Employment Service delivers supported internships helping young people with learning disabilities gain paid employment whilst improving their English and Maths skills.

Ms Kings added: “Also, the communication with parents is brilliant and they do a lot of review meetings and target setting which is brilliant.

“Their key achievement was to find all students a permanent job by the end of the course. I believe they achieved that.

“They do everything possible to make everything as easy as possible to fit in and never expect anything too much of anybody, which helps enormously to give confidence, which is key.

“All of the staff are friendly and helpful, and they always suit the coordinator that they feel will suit the student’s needs.”

Ms Kings said if a parent or student has a concern, nothing is ever too much trouble, and they are always at the end of the phone to help.

The Worcestershire Education Awards, run jointly between Worcester University and the Worcester News, celebrates excellence in teaching and training across the county.

The deadline for award nominations is April 18.

Finalists are chosen by a panel of judges and winners will be announced during an awards ceremony at the University Arena in Worcester on June 20.

For more information, go to worcesternews.co.uk/awards/worcestershire_education_awards