Eight Merton residents with learning disabilities were awarded certificates by the Mayor of Merton, Councillor Agatha Akyigyina and chief executive Ged Curran for completing one week’s work experience at the council. 

Work Taster Week, set up by the council in partnership with Merton Mencap and Merton Voluntary Service Council is an initiative with the aim to give more employment opportunities to people with learning disabilities. Council departments that provided work experience include parking, greenspaces, direct payments and libraries.

Mayor of Merton, Councillor Agatha Akyigyina said: “Well done to everyone who successfully completed their work taster week. Taking part could be the first step to many employment opportunities, and I wish all involved the very best for their future.”

Merton’s cabinet member for adult social care and health, Councillor Caroline Cooper-Marbiah said: “Congratulations to everybody who took part in work taster week. I encourage them to use the experience for future employment. The project is a good example of how Merton works well in partnership with other organisations.”

Enamul Khan, who spent the week working in Morden Library, said: “I gained a lot of new skills this week. I have applied to be a volunteer in Merton’s library service and hope it will lead to a job in the future.”

ENDS