Customers and staff at Pembrokeshire County Council’s, Avenue Social Activity Centre in Tenby have been running the kitchen and catering services at the centre since January.

Some customers using the centre had expressed an interest in food preparation, customer service and catering and the opportunity of getting some work experience in the kitchen, planning and preparing food and being involved in the food service process.

The group recently completed Food Safety Level 1 training via the Workways+ project which is supported by the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government.

Staff at the Avenue have been supporting the group in the kitchen, developing their food preparation and service skills and improving their skills in communication and team work.

Anna Whitfield, senior team co-ordinator at the Avenue, said: “The group have really enjoyed learning new skills and working together in the kitchen, there has been a real buzz about the place. This has inspired other customers at the Avenue to want to get involved so a second food safety course has been organised.”

Ellie Brick, performance and quality manager for Workways+, said: “It’s fantastic to see the group at the Avenue enjoying their work experience and training. They are keen to gain more skills so we will be looking at some more training in first aid and health and safety to help further develop their knowledge and opportunities. It is also good to see this has inspired others to try something new - I’m glad we’ve been able to help.”