1^st November 2023

WorkTaste Success

Rossendale Trust’s pioneering WorkTaste project is making a significant impact in the lives of people with learning disabilities, offering them a unique opportunity to overcome the barriers they often face in the workplace. Despite the wealth of talents they possess, individuals with learning disabilities are notably underrepresented in the workforce. The WorkTaste initiative is changing that narrative by providing our tenants with invaluable work experience, new skills, enhanced confidence, and the chance to make a genuine contribution to their respective employment settings.

The heart of WorkTaste lies in our dedicated team of WorkTaste coaches, who offer individualised support to each participant, fostering their growth and development in their roles.

In an exciting development, Rossendale Trust is thrilled to announce that two recent WorkTaste placements have resulted in tenants securing paid employment.

Gareth’s Success Story

One such success story is Gareth, who has been volunteering as a catering assistant at the Guild for Lifelong Learning for nearly two years. During this time, Gareth’s dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. He has successfully completed qualifications in Food Hygiene and Health & Safety in the kitchen, demonstrating his commitment to professional growth. Gareth’s exceptional performance has earned him recognition as a valuable asset to the team, leading to a remarkable offer of two hours of paid work every week.

Julie Miles, Gareth’s colleague at the Guild, attests to his exceptional contributions: “He is a great team player and very personable. I have witnessed his growing confidence when carrying out tasks, and he is now eager to step out of his comfort zone. Gareth takes the initiative, which is a fantastic advantage in our busy setting.”

Paul’s Triumph at Arighi Bianchi Cafe Bar

Another inspiring success story from the WorkTaste program is Paul, who has been joyfully serving customers at the Arighi Bianchi Cafe Bar for several months. Paul’s dedication and hard work have also not gone unnoticed. As a result, he has been offered paid employment, recently receiving his employment contract from owner Nick Bianchi. Paul’s colleague, Hannah Smith, enthusiastically shared her thoughts: “Paul is amazing, and we are fortunate to have him on our team.”

Everyone at the Trust offers congratulations to Paul and Gareth, wishing them every success in their new roles. We also extend our gratitude to the dedicated coaches who have been instrumental in helping them achieve these milestones. A special thank you goes out to all the staff at Arighi Bianchi and the Guild for Lifelong Learning for their unwavering support every step of the way.

Rossendale Trust’s WorkTaste initiative continues to break down barriers, create opportunities, and inspire change, proving that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the potential to make a positive impact in the workforce. For more information about WorkTaste and how you can support this transformative program, please visit www.rossendaletrust.org/worktaste