Halton Community Services have been improving the quality of life for some of the most vulnerable people who use our service. We have opened new work based opportunities across the borough, which will enable people with disabilities to learn pre-employment skills in order to access the work place through business and entrepreneurship.

Our strategy was simple. Divert resources from traditional “bricks and mortar” based day-care services, and create opportunities structured for business and linked to the commercial world. Instead of passively receiving traditional day centre activities, users of the service now have opportunities to spend a varied and rewarding day, contributing to the day today running of a business. The experience increases levels of confidence, and gives them a self-value that is priceless.

This was made possible through our strong links with Norton Priory Museum who is one of the services key partners and the hub of the services business model it is home to:

Country Garden Catering, included in its business area is, the Refectory Cafe which is based in Norton Priority Museum, a Tea Room based in Walled Garden area plus an ice cream making parlour also sited there.
Norton Brewing based in the grounds at Norton Priory the real ale is brewed by people who use the service trainee brewers, under the watchful eye of trained staff and is sold to licenced premises and is available in gift packs.

Bottling Plant

Additionally a bottling plant has opened within the grounds of Norton Priory which adds more diverse opportunities for people particularly those under the Autistic Spectrum as it offers them the structure they need to complete the task also as a specialist skill increases there employ-ability.

Coach House Crafts provide handmade quality craft products bespoke to the buyer; people involved in the craft production are guided by experienced staff.

Halton Community Services operates within 22 community venues across the borough and strives to provide meaningful day time activity for the people who use its services; the whole concept is based on opportunity for all, the success of the model is measured on achievement and outcomes, an exit strategy into the commercial world of work has been developed, to date, three people have been found an employment opportunity outside the scope of the service.

Halton Community Services is an award winning service which is recognised locally and nationally as innovative and ground-breaking, the service prides itself on its person centred approaches to supporting people regardless of disability to develop employment skills which can be transferred into the workplace.145 adults with a learning disability are currently enjoying multiple work experience opportunities in the business area of the service either as trainee stylists, brewers, catering assistants, customer care assistants.