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An innovative £2m scheme to create the UK’s first hotel for young people with autism and learning difficulties has been given the green light by Gateshead Council.
The St Camillus Care Group was granted planning permission on 2 August to transform the former Rivers Edge hotel into The Vault, which will aim to provide respite care for young people with a range of learning difficulties as well as training them to work within the hospitality industry.
The ground floor of the property is already operating as an American-style diner – currently used by people with autism – but it is hoped that this will eventually be open to the public.
The hotel also has a function room which is currently used by groups, with a long term aim of this being available for hire for business meetings and celebrations.
Work is now set to begin transforming the 28 bedrooms to make them suitable for respite care, while training has also begun on giving young people with autism and learning difficulties the opportunity to work alongside trained staff.
St Camillus has partnered with Gateshead College and its Project Choice scheme – which helps young people with autism and learning difficulties find internships – to help the young people learn the skills they need for a career in hospitality.
John Heron, managing director of St Camillus, said The Vault was giving young people an “unprecedented opportunity” for a career in hospitality.
“This is a real chance,” he said, “for young people aged from 18 to 25 to learn alongside professionals in the hospitality industry in a real setting, so that they can hopefully go on to a full time career.
“At the same time it’s also a place for people with autism and learning difficulties to come to and enjoy the facilities.”
Some 30 jobs will be created within the hotel when it is opened in October this year.
