People gathered earlier this week to celebrate the achievements of young people with learning disabilities and people with autism at an award ceremony in Carlisle.

The People First Awards, held at The Halston on Tuesday evening, brought together more than 200 guests to recognise the achievements, hard-earned qualifications, and new beginnings of the young people supported by People First.

Among the guests were learners, family, and friends as well as a slew of local businesses.

David Blacklock, CEO of People First, said: "It has been fantastic to see businesses, local leaders, families and of course our learners all connecting at this event.

"The world and the workplace is a better place when we all get to be a part of it. Events like this shine a light on the successes that people with learning disabilities and autistic people can achieve when they are given opportunity."

People First is an independent organisation that has been supporting people in Cumbria for more than 30 years.

As the largest provider of advocacy in Cumbria, they work with thousands of people every year to ensure their voices heard and help them to live their best lives.

Mike Deans from headline sponsor Borderway Finance said: "We’ve worked with People First for over two years now and we were delighted to be asked to be part of this event.

"Together we have been working to raise awareness of People First and the amazing work that they do in our area.

"The Awards have been a great event and it’s been good to see such a buzz around building further awareness for the learners to try and help them get out into the wider world and gain real-life experience and opportunities."

The winners of the awards were: 

  • Connie Dodds - Increased Confidence

  • Imogen Weekes - Team Player

  • Catherine Quilter - Above and Beyond

  • Natalie Davidson - Most Improved 

  • Mia Jepkes - Rising Star 

  • Jonathan Solomons -The Self Advocacy 

  • Thomas Graham - Placement of the Year

  • Keith Atkinson - Placement of the Year

  • William Sewell - Deeper Connections 

  • Kristie Wilson - People’s Champion

  • Chris Armstrong - Learners' Choice 

  • Alfie Whittle - Learner of the Year