A YOUNG woman has taken a step ahead in her career thanks to a pioneering training scheme.

Erin Lindsay, who is autistic, has landed a job at Glenfield Care Home in Bedford Street in Greenock.

The 27-year-old had been working at the home one day a week for two years but now works 16 hours a week and is on a training scheme which will lead to a qualification.

Erin, who lives in Gourock, said: "I enjoy working here.

"I like the staff and residents and enjoying helping them.

"I've been prepping vegetables for dinner and fruit for the trolleys.

"I've also been baking scones, sponges and cakes."

Erin is supervised by cook Jacqueline Lightbody who says she has 'come on leaps and bounds'.

Jacqueline added: "A first step was making sauces for main courses and preparing vegetables for soup.

"The things she's made have worked out really well."

Erin is being supported at work by regular visits from a tutor from Learning Direct.

She previously studied at West College Scotland and also worked for a spell in the Fitzgerald Centre.

Erin said: "I feel it's good that I am learning new things.

"I would like to continue to work here."

Erin is being helped by a programme run by Values Into Action and West College Scotland in conjunction with Inverclyde Council and The Trust.

It helps people with disabilities into the workplace.

Carol Chiverton, manager of Glenfield, said: "Erin worked with us part-time and we were delighted to support her.

"When The Trust approached us to say funding was available we felt Erin was the ideal candidate."

Kevin Millar, senior employer engagement worker with The Trust said: "There are many barriers that face disabled people in securing employment including negative attitudes, inflexible working practices and inaccessible work areas.

"This partnership presents a cohesive and positive response in Inverclyde and we encourage and support local business to engage with this programme.

"Erin is a true ambassador for this project and we are confident that she will establish herself as a valued member of staff at Glenfield.

"However, we are keen for other trainees to showcase their qualities and we invite local employers to join us for a breakfast event in early November.

"The event will be held at Inverkip Community Centre on 8th November and highlight the comprehensive range of recruitment, training and funding support available to employers."

For more information contact Kevin on 553337.