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New charity partnership to boost employability for adults with learning disabilities
A Bristol-based charity that supports adults with learning disabilities to find paid employment has taken a major step in its efforts to expand its services.
Props has joined forces with Bristol Charities and will become part of the Bristol Charities group, with both organisations aiming to expand training opportunities and connect more people with learning disabilities to local employers.
The announcement comes at a critical time for adults with learning disabilities seeking paid work.
Recent figures suggest only around five per cent of adults with learning disabilities in the UK are in paid employment, despite many wanting to work, with campaigners pointing to systemic barriers that limit opportunity and confidence.
“I have met some really nice people and love working with each and every one of them. I am so happy. It makes me really excited to know I’m going to work in the cafe,” said Props trainee Chloe – photo: Props
For 25 years, Props has supported adults with learning disabilities into purposeful and rewarding employment, helping them gain confidence, skills, experience and more importantly, wages.
One trainee, Chloe, who works at the Vassall Centre Cafe, run by Props, described her positive experience since joining the team.
When Chloe first joined, she was hesitant and needed support with tasks such as food preparation and approaching customers.
Since then, she has grown significantly in confidence and now independently prepares salads, serves customers, manages the till and supports the team by making teas and toasties.
Chloe said: “I have met some really nice people and love working with each and every one of them. I am so happy. It makes me really excited to know I’m going to work in the cafe.”
Her mother, Caroline, added: “Chloe’s confidence has grown rapidly since being in the cafe. Now more than ever, we are so proud of her.”
Bristol Charities, which traces its work in the city back more than 600 years, recently unveiled a £10m plan to tackle inequality across Bristol, with the partnership aligning closely with its long-term ambitions.
Julian Mines, chief executive of Bristol Charities, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Props into the Bristol Charities group. Props has a strong track record of empowering people and promoting inclusion, values that are central to our mission.
Julian Mines, chief executive of Bristol Charities, welcomed the new charity partnership with Props – photo: Bristol Charities – photo: Bristol Charities
“What makes Props distinctive is its hands-on, real-world approach. From the Vassall Centre Cafe to its structured training and employment programmes, it creates genuine pathways into work.
“By working more closely together, we can expand that impact, supporting more adults with learning disabilities to develop skills, gain confidence and access meaningful employment.”
In 2022, Props took ownership of Tapestry Brewery and signed the lease with plans to create a fully inclusive, accessible cafe and enterprise centre – Vassall Centre Cafe. Since then it has been a springboard for many trainees such as Chloe.
Becky King, director at Props, added: “Joining the Bristol Charities group marks an exciting new chapter for Props.
“Together, we can create more opportunities for people with learning disabilities to thrive,” said Becky King, director at Props – photo: Props
“It strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality support while connecting us to a wider network committed to social impact. Together, we can create more opportunities for people with learning disabilities to thrive.”
Main photo: Props
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