An advocator of better employment for young people and people with disabilities is to receive an MBE for her charity work.

Jenny Arwas, of Hendon, is the non-executive director of Employment Opportunities — a UK charity dedicated to finding employment for people with disabilities and medical conditions.

The director of Human Resources at BT also sits on the board of the Prince’s Trust London council and is a passionate supporter of Chickenshed, an inclusive theatre company based in Southgate.

Mrs Arwas said she was "surprised but honoured" to receive the commendation and added: "The trust has become more and more dear to my heart as I see the impact its work has on these young people.

"It focuses on 14 to 25-year-olds who are the most disadvantaged and, as a result, unemployable. The fantastic results these programmes have on these people is mind blowing and hugely satisfying."

Susan Jameson, of Chickenshed, who has worked alongside with Mrs Arwas for several years, welcomed the news.

She said: "Jenny is a wonderful choice for an MBE. She absolutely deserves it.

"She has been a devoted supporter of our theatre group for many years, not just bringing in money but bringing in people and helping to raise our profile. I’m delighted for her, I really am."