Supported Employment

Every year we carry out a survey with as many of the people who use our services as possible. And one of the most consistent messages we hear is that having access to meaningful employment would make a great difference to their quality of life. So, when the opportunity came up in 2009 to run a café in Woodford as a supported employment venture, we decided to take up the challenge.

Ray Park Café

Instead of running the café as another RCHL service, we decided to set up a social enterprise – not only managing the café but also developing other supported employment opportunities both within RCHL and the community.

Well on our way to creating even more supported employment opportunities in the future, we're proud to have established this separate Community Interest Company. Called 'RCHL Pathways to Employment', it runs the café and builds links with local employers.

Work experience

Situated in the James Leal Centre in Ray Park, Woodford, the Ray Park Café provides supported employment for two catering support workers, as well as regular work experience placements for young adults leaving school and local RCHL residents.

Working in partnership with Ellingham Employment Services, we're also able to provide a temporary 25 hour a week job to people who are interested in developing practical catering skills. This role is offered to a different person every six months.

To find out more, visit www.rchlpathways.org