A snack bar run by young people with additional needs has opened at Haverfordwest magistrates court.

Enterprising staff from Action for Children’s Pembrokeshire services successfully bid for funding to open a snack bar in the court building to be run by young volunteers with additional learning needs.

The Hatch officially launched on Friday, September 21, and will serve sandwiches, drinks and snacks to local organisations and members of the public at the court.

An Action for Children spokesman said full risk assessments had been completed.

He said: “A member of staff will be with the young person (16-25 years) at all times. There will be no entry to the Hatch for the general public and the only contact with customers will be through the serving window.

“Younger volunteers will take a back office role working on management, stock control, leaflets, menus and theme days during opening hours.”

The idea was pitched to a Dragons’ Den style panel in Glasgow last year, Pembrokeshire County Council then backed the initiative and Children in Need also supported the project with £10,000 a year over three years and Bluestone Wales holiday company contributing £5,000, Health and Safety training and consulting advice.

The Hatch launched alongside another project, Women & Girls Together that offers support to vulnerable girls and women aged 12 to 21 to make better choices, stay safe and raise aspirations.

Charlotte Phillips, service coordinator for Action for Children in Pembrokeshire, said: "The Hatch offers volunteering positions and the chance to develop social and customer care skills, as well as budgeting, food hygiene and barista skills. In the longer term, the aim is for young people to build relationships with local suppliers and customers and open up career opportunities as a result."

The Hatch will also be able to support young people from Portfield School, as well as students from Pembrokeshire College and young adult carers.