Team Domenica work with over 60 employer partners to create rewarding opportunities for both candidates and businesses.

One such partner is Hilton, whose commitment is helping build skills, confidence and opportunities. Together, we are showing what’s possible when inclusive values are matched with practical, on-the-job support.

June: Learning and growing

June is a second-year candidate completing a supported internship as a Kitchen Porter (KP) at DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole. Before starting her placement, she completed qualifications in the Team Domenica classroom, work experience in the community, and hands-on training in our cafés. Here she developed her practical kitchen skills and a fondness for being a KP.

With the support of her Job Coach and colleagues, June has become an integral member of the team. She is proactive and committed, supporting breakfast service for hundreds of guests and attending key team briefings. June is so prompt, in fact, that the team often know when it’s time for a meeting because she will be in the briefing area ready!

Team Domenica take your thoughts into their thoughts, and help you reach your dreams. I feel good in what my future might look like now. My internship at Hilton makes me feel happy. My favourite part is how quick I can do things. That feeling when there’s loads of messy plates and then you whiz it and it’s clean! So speedy!

June, Team Domenica candidate

Polly: Mentoring and ongoing support

Polly, a Team Domenica graduate, also works as a KP at DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole – as a paid employee. As June’s ‘Wednesday Buddy’, Polly has helped her navigate new tasks and integrate into the team.

As a graduate from our programmes, Polly receives ongoing support as part of our Wrap Around Programme. This provision provides guidance, mentorship, and social opportunities, helping candidates thrive personally and professionally.

Polly says: “It’s exciting to work. It helps me to make more friends and have my own money. I like that I am still a part of Team Domenica too. My mentor checks in to see how things are going and the social events are fun. It is nice to see my old friends like Katie!”

Hilton: A partnership that works

Team Domenica began working with Hilton through our charity partnership with with WiHTL & Diversity in Retail. They are a leading employer in the hospitality industry and are committed to creating inclusive employment opportunities for all.

Like all of our employer partnerships, our work with DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole is based on structured support, clear communication and strong relationships. Before June’s internship started, staff were given her candidate profile and received guidance to ensure they felt comfortable in the process.

Working with Team Domenica has been an interesting and rewarding experience. As such a large venue, I was initially a little apprehensive, but Team Domenica’s support has been massive. They’ve made the whole experience not only possible, but enjoyable. June and Polly are exactly what I needed as a manager; they have broadened and enriched our kitchen, and I absolutely look forward to what’s next.

Darren, Head Chef at DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole

Throughout their placement, our candidates receive on-the-job guidance from their Team Domenica Job Coach. Whether it’s breaking down tasks into manageable steps, modelling new skills, or supporting someone through a challenging moment – our Job Coaches are there to help. We also offer regular review meetings which allow for feedback, help identify areas for development, and ensure both candidates and employers feel supported.

In June’s six-week review, she requested to expand her skillset – including working in more advanced KP zones – something the team at DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole are hoping to implement with Team Domenica’s support.

Karen, the hotel’s HR Manager shared: “When I am in the hotel I often visit June and Alison [June’s Job Coach] in the kitchen, and I am always greeted with a smile and positive attitude. The communication from Team Domenica has been great – from our very first meeting to every meeting since. I truly see the value of this great partnership and I am happy that it has been such a great success!”

Hilton’s support for Team Domenica has gone beyond these vital workplace opportunities. In addition to hosting placements, they generously donated £20,000 towards the renovation of our new pub – The North Star – via the Hilton UK Foundation. In doing so, they emphasized their commitment to creating diverse teams, inclusive workplaces, and meaningful opportunities for people of all abilities.

At Hilton, inclusion and diversity are core to how we do business, and by working together with partners like Team Domenica, we can help build an inclusive workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities. Not only has the Hilton UK Foundation helped bring the pioneering North Star project to life, but we’re also really proud that the DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole has welcomed Team Domenica candidates for valuable work experience – both great examples of what people with learning disabilities can achieve when given the right opportunities.

Stephen Cassidy, Senior Vice President of Hilton UK & Ireland

Opening doors to confidence, skills, and independence

June and Polly’s experiences show what happens when you bring together structured support, mentoring, and employer collaboration. Candidates gain practical skills, social confidence, and financial independence, whilst employers benefit from committed, skilled team members who enrich the workplace culture.

Our partnership with Hilton is truly making a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism. As June puts it: “[It] means freedom.”