Cute award for Zoo Keeper Jason
A zoo keeper from Stockingford, Nuneaton, is the pride of Twycross Zoo after he scooped an award for his work with a teenage visitor with disabilities.
Jason Mann, who has a learning disability, is supported by Warwickshire County Council’s Aim 4 Employment Service. Jason won the zoo’s monthly CUTE award that recognises the work of members of staff who help to ‘create a unique Twycross experience.’
Jason recently spent time working in a paddock where visitors can pet animals. He brought out each animal and took them up close to the 14-year-old visitor who uses a wheelchair.
Jason works at the zoo two days a week on a range of duties including time in the children’s area ‘Pets at Twycross,’ and working with the Gorillas and other apes and monkeys.
Andy Moore, Pets at Twycross manager, said that Jason was a key member of the team. He said: “We couldn’t manage without him, and it is a pleasure to present him with some chocolates as a token of thanks.”
Jason’s mum Elaine Mann said “He’s always liked animals. I’m very proud of him.”
Jason has worked at Twycross Zoo for two and a half years as part of a supported work placement scheme co-ordinated by Nuneaton based employment service Aim 4, which is part of Warwickshire County Council’s Adult Health and Community Services. Staff at Aim 4 work with businesses and other organisations in the local area to provide employment opportunities for adults with learning disabilities.
Jason works two days a week with a team of five zoo keepers.