Dorset pub firm offers help to county's care leavers

The Blandford-based brewery hosts events and workshops

A brewery and pub company has been supporting Dorset's care leavers with workshops and job opportunities.

Hall and Woodhouse has been held up by Dorset Council as an example of how firms can help people whose chances might be affected by past experiences.

The company has already hired a number of care leavers, as well as holding information days and activities at its brewery and head offices in Blandford.

Dorset Council is appealing for other businesses that can offer similar help.

Hall and Woodhouse runs more than 250 pubs in Dorset and across the south of England as well as operating the Badger Brewery.

Chairman Anthony Woodhouse said: "We are delighted to be involved with the Dorset Council Care Leavers programme.

"Providing the opportunity of a career in hospitality and support for talented young people is a win-win situation for all involved."

A number of care leavers are already working for the brewery and pub chain

The council said its care leavers had also been supported by Sky, which gave 50 people a technology bundle, including a laptop and 18-months of internet.

As part of the firm's Sky Up scheme, young people were also invited to a wellbeing event held at Bournemouth Football Club and to a Sky Studios tour, which included a session on career opportunities.

Dorset Council's children and education councillor Byron Quayle said: "We want our care-experienced children and young people to thrive, develop their full potential and enjoy a settled adulthood.

"We are grateful for the opportunities and support that Hall and Woodhouse, and Sky, offer to our young people - they are making such a difference.

"We'd like to encourage more local businesses and organisations to consider how you could be part of Dorset's initiative to give the best support to those leaving our care."

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