Northampton pub takes on intern after ‘outstanding’ placement
A Northampton youngster with learning difficulties has kickstarted her career in hospitality after landing a paid job at The Wig & Walnut pub, following a successful Supported Internship placement.
Lillie, who joined the pub last year through Marston’s Supported Internship initiative, has spent the past six months building skills and confidence while gaining hands-on experience as part of the pub team.
The achievement also comes as Marston’s is named Mencap’s Employer of the Month, recognising the commitment of their pub teams across the UK who are helping young adults with learning difficulties to start their careers in hospitality.
After impressing colleagues and guests alike, Lillie has now been offered an official paid role at the pub.
Jay Martin-Doran, General Manager at The Wig & Walnut, said: “Lillie has been a superstar from the moment she joined us. She’s grown in confidence every single week and has become a valued, much-loved part of our pub family.
“Watching her develop her skills and build brilliant relationships with our guests has been fantastic. Offering her a paid role felt like the most natural next step after such an outstanding placement, and we’re all incredibly excited to continue supporting her on her journey.”
Lillie, who will now be taking on regular shifts at the popular local pub, spoke of her excitement at being offered the role: “I love working at The Wig & Walnut. The team have helped me so much and made me feel welcome from the start. I’m really happy to be staying on and I can’t wait to keep learning new things.”
Marston’s Supported Internship Programme is now in its second year and currently works with specialist colleges and organisations to help young adults with learning difficulties gain practical experience and build the foundations for future employment.
Jay added: “Our team and guests have really embraced the programme and the positive impact it brings. Seeing Lillie’s hard work lead to a paid role is exactly why we do this – she embodies being passionate about her local community and delivering moments that matter for all of our guests which is so important to us at Marston’s.”