Megna, a 22-year-old with autism and learning difficulties, was recruited by Seacroft Grange a 95-bed care home within the Springfield Healthcare group in October 2022. She was hired as a bistro assistant and works at the home’s on-site bistro five days a week from 10am-2pm.
She said: “I am pleased to be working in the bistro at Seacroft Grange. Every day is different and I have learned lots of new skills. I was a bit shy at first, but now I really enjoy talking to the residents and staff and making barista coffees for everyone.”
Access Hospitality C.I.C. launched in 2018 with a mission to help young adults find fulfilling job roles in hospitality and retail, which are mutually beneficial to both the employer and employee.
The social enterprise has designed and created a piece of assistive technology which Megna has full use of. Megna uses the assistive technology at work to help her with managing and fulfilling tasks by giving clear, controlled and direct instructions via a smart watch, or tablet.
The same piece of technology also allows visitors, residents and staff to order drinks. The assistive technology allows her to fulfil her role taking orders and serving residents at the bistro independently and with confidence.
Eve Moran, care home manager, added: “With a national shortage of hospitality staff within the care sector, we really struggled to fill Megna’s position and without her and the help of Access Hospitality C.I.C. we would not be able to open our bistro – the social hub of the home where many residents visit for a barista-style coffee or hot chocolate.
“Working closely with Access Hospitality C.I.C. on placing Megna in this role has been a great experience. The team are caring and compassionate, provide the hands-on support and then let the assistive technology guide Megna and help her fulfill her daily tasks.”