Community Partnerships

Collaborating with local organisations, support groups and disability advocacy networks is very important to us. Through these relationships we have developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by disabled and neurodiverse people in the job market. This ensures our support is relevant and responsive to the community we serve. 

 

Our key partnerships include Inclusion College, Hampshire County Council, Hart District Council, Love4Life - Fitzroy, Energise Me/Hampshire Active, Citizens Advice Bureau Community Matters Partnership and the Repair Cafe. We have been working closely with the Department for Work and Pensions on their new ‘Access to Work +’ scheme and are one a limited number of organisations in the UK involved in their ‘proof of concept’ for this initiative. 

 

We continue to build new connections with SEN colleges and special schools to create clear pathways from education to employment, addressing the transition challenges between children’s and adult services. 

 

Community volunteers are also vital. Over the past year, more than 150 volunteers have supported us. Many have helped with site maintenance through our relationship with the Community Matters Partnership, which facilitates large numbers of volunteers several times a year to help us with grounds maintenance and other large projects. Other dedicated local volunteers are vital for the community pantry and 15 regular volunteers staff this valuable service. Volunteers also play a key role in supporting our wider activities, including hosting art classes and community events. One of the highlights of the year are our Community Lunches, held at our premises during Easter, summer, and on Christmas Day - offering a warm, welcoming space for residents and local people who might otherwise be alone at these times.