Colin Butler is celebrating after landing a gardening job through a Havering Council scheme to help those with learning disabilities.

The council’s “Employ Me” scheme sees it teaming up with learning disability charity Mencap to help candidates find jobs, work experience and volunteering positions. Employ Me helps people with disabilities access public transport and conduct job searches, and supports them through the application and interview process.

Colin is in the seventh week of a “work trial” that could see him getting a permanent job at the home.

“I do the gardens and tidy them up,” he said. “I really enjoy this sort of work. I had a bit of experience before when I worked in a crematorium and I also did a college course.”

Lynn Baker, the home’s deputy manager, said: “He is doing really well. We set him tasks and he just cracks on with them. It’s been a really positive experience for both of us. He is really well liked by everyone – he’s always polite and has a good heart.”

Cllr Steven Kelly, cabinet member for individuals, said: “This is a brilliant scheme that gives people with learning disabilities the confidence to work. It has been really successful for residents and employers. Many employers are impressed with the dedication that they get from those who they employ through the scheme.”

For more information about Employ Me, call Angela Hodges on 07534 565966 or email angela.hodges@mencap.org.uk.