Terminal 5 Hilton pilots work scheme for people with learning difficulties

The Hilton London at Heathrow Terminal 5 has announced plans to pilot a new scheme aimed at helping young people with learning disabilities get into work. 

The property will be the first hotel employer in the UK to trial the scheme, which will be run in partnership with and funded by Ealing Council and Mencap.

The scheme is based on SEARCH, an American employment model that enables young people to spend their last academic year in the workplace rather than the classroom.

Starting in September 2014, 12 students from Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College will gain experience working in the Hilton’s food and beverage, meeting and event operations, housekeeping and reception.

Meredith Bevan, the hotel’s general manager, said: “By helping these young people into work we are raising expectations of what they can achieve. Not only is the scheme helping young people gain valuable experience, it is opening up life choices.

“We will place the young people within our departments in roles that match their skill sets. They will be continually assessed, supported and set targets for them to achieve.”

Caroline Lowe, director of human resources at the hotel, said: “Sadly, less than 7% of young people with learning disabilities make the transition from education into paid employment. We have a duty to challenge the statistic and this experience empowers those young people to seek employment.”