OUTSIDE the Box has launched its new project ‘OTB Works’ to help its members get work with local employers.

The project has got off to a flying start with one member already being taken on by Specsavers in Ilkley and other members attending the first OTB Work Club.

Outside The Box manager, Jenna Peel, said: “Our vision for Outside the Box is to provide a real work environment for people with a learning disability that helps them to be part of the local community, raises their aspirations and enables those that wish to progress into work and further training.

"We have increasing numbers of members who are keen and ready, with support, to explore and enter paid work. To respond to this, we have designed the Outside the Box Works project.

Specsavers have been very supportive of the work OTB has been trying to do with its members.

Sara Saunders, senior optometrist at the Ilkley store, has played a key role in partnering with Outside the Box to provide an employment opportunity for member, Imogen Dickinson. Following a trial placement, Imogen will now be working two days a week at the store helping to meet and greet customers.

Sara said: “We are so pleased to be able to support Outside the Box and provide a work opportunity to one of its members.

"It has been a pleasure to work with Imogen and see her develop and grow within the role. We would love to see other local businesses follow in our footsteps and offer some members real work opportunities."

As part of the project, the first OTB Work Club was held at the café last week. The club will provide an eight-week course, delivered in partnership with North Yorkshire Adult Learning and Skills Service, to help members prepare for work. It will cover sessions on the world of work, CV development, meeting employers and learning disabled employees and interview preparation.

Outside the Box want to hear from local employers that may be able to help with the project.

Jenna added: “We know our members have lots to offer local employers and would like to hear from any businesses in Ilkley and surrounding areas that could work with us on providing work trials, placements or job opportunities or provide employer input to the work club."