A GREENOCK employability advisor who helped a young Port man with a rare brain disease to secure his first job has received a top award.

Leeann Jenkinson, who works at West College Scotland, celebrated her 40th birthday in style after scooping the top award in the Support at Work category at the Scottish learning Disability Awards last week.

Leeann last year helped local man Sean Devlin land his first job, working at the new Inverkip Community Hub.

Sean, who is now undertaking a modern apprenticeship there, nominated Leeann for the award together with Kevin Rogers, the hub manager.

Sean, who suffers from moyamoya - a rare disease caused by the narrowing or blockage of the four main blood vessels in the brain, said: “Leeann brings out the potential in people.

"I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for her.”

Kevin added: "The impact on Sean and the other students Leeann has worked with has been invaluable.

"Sean said that being involved in the programme has improved his confidence and made him stronger as a person."

For the past eight years, Leeann has been going above and beyond to change the lives of young people with learning disabilities in the area.

Her role involves working with students applying for employability courses and teaming up with local employers to provide placement opportunities.

Modest Leeann says she was taken aback to receive the award.

She said: “People with learning disabilities make wonderful employees as they have great commitment, time keeping and work ethics.

"Seeing the young people believe in themselves and how far they have come is a reward in itself."

Paul Martin, who is the head of learner development at West College Scotland, said: "I am absolutely delighted that Leeann's dedicated hard work and professionalism has been recognised in this way.

"She is part of a dedicated team of staff dedicated to enhancing opportunities for people with barriers to work."