Our workers - local adults who have learning disabilities

Our workers are adults with learning disabilities living in and around Ripon, North Yorkshire. They work in a positive, friendly and happy environment with dedicated staff supporting them. In house training sees our workers gain communication skills, first hand work experience and everyday life skills.

Learning about the raw materials used in our products

Raise confidence

As well as working on all aspects of producing a range of everyday products; from sourcing materials, joinery, painting, sewing, metal work, packaging, quality control, despatch through to marketing and selling, our workers are trained on every day life skills such as meeting new people, gaining the ability to socialise, dealing with money and managing time.

"I think Jennyruth is a fantastic place. To see the workers start and completely finish a product is amazing. Seeing the looks on their faces is great. Sam really enjoys it very much and has progressed considerably since coming here."
Care Support Worker of Sam

Workers feel a sense of belonging to the workshops and ownership of the products they make and sell, bringing them confidence and self belief.

Building up confidence at Jennyruth Workshops

Build up independence

Our workers move through a path of progression suited to their own ability. There is a full formal annual review with regular updates throughout the year involving assessment and ongoing supervision, discussing work formally and informally. From this, their next realistic step from the staff and worker's point of view is realised.

Depending on their starting point, this progression leads to a number of outcomes: paid employment; reduction in supervision; teamwork and supporting their fellow workers in tasks. Whatever the outcome, our workers gain real life skills which see them grow in independence and happiness.

"I like doing orders. I like organising paper work in the office. I like working on computers and checking emails."
Matthew, Worker at Jennyruth

Develop life skills

Jennyruth is very much part of the community. Our workers are constantly developing social awareness and interacting with local people and businesses:

Building up life skills at Jennyruth Workshops

• Selling products from a Farm Shop outlet on a weekly basis, at craft fairs, open days, markets and canteen sales throughout the year.
• Giving regular talks to local group on the workshops and what we do
• Conducting tours around the workshop
• Organising and running fund raising events like Barn dances, sponsored walks and barbecues
• Going on educational visits together

We also seek to give back to the community by working with schools, churches, community groups and local businesses within Ripon and surrounds. See our News for more information.