Since January, customers and staff at the Avenue Social Activity Centre in Tenby have been working together running the facility’s kitchen and catering services.

The move came about when some of the centre’s customers expressed an interest in food preparation, customer service and catering.

The opportunity arose for them to undertake work experience in the kitchen and to be involved in the food service process.

Staff at the Avenue supported the group in the kitchen developing their food preparation and service skills and improving their skills in communication and team work.

As a result, the new ‘Masterchefs’ recently completed their Food Safety Level 1 training via the Workways+ project which is supported by the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government.

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.

“In fact, they inspired other customers at the centre and at The Anchorage in Pembroke Dock to also want to get involved, so a second Food Safety course took place at the end of February.”

Said Ellie Brick, performance and quality manager for Workways+: “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.”

For more information about the Workways+ Project, please give the team a call on 01437 776609 or email [email protected]