Eden Valley Hospice is delighted to have been named ‘Placement of the Year’ at the 2026 People First Learner Awards, which celebrate the achievements of People First Academy learners and the businesses and organisations supporting them across Cumbria. The awards recognise the progress, confidence and skills learners gain through meaningful workplace experiences.
The award was collected on behalf of the hospice by Jerry Hall, Director of Facilities and Safety, following the hospice’s partnership with People First and its support of learner placement opportunities.
Jerry Hall, Director of Facilities and Safety, said:
“After attending the awards last year, we came away inspired by the work going on and wanted to get involved. Here at the hospice, we carry out regular checks to ensure we are compliant with our regulators, and Marc, our first learner placement, has embraced this role, checking safety equipment and flushing water systems to prevent Legionella.
“Marc is great to have around, and it is wonderful seeing his confidence build. We have really enjoyed having Marc and his job coach Mia with us and are looking forward to seeing if we can offer placements in other areas, like our Kitchen.
“The team at people First have made it really easy to get involved and deserve credit for advocating for these young learners, and allowing them to self-advocate too. If you are an employer thinking about it – just take the plunge and get involved!”
The award is a testament to the positive impact that supported placements can have for both learners and employers. By welcoming learners into the workplace, organisations can help develop confidence, independence and valuable life skills while benefiting from the enthusiasm and contributions they bring to their teams.
We are incredibly proud to have Marc and Mia onboard, and we’re looks forward to continuing its partnership with People First to create further opportunities for learners in the future.
