Social Enterprises
As part of the education services Autism Initiatives offer, Social Enterprise supports young autistic people to learn work skills in a real business environment, build confidence and take employment opportunities.
Only 32% of autistic adults are in paid employment of any kind compared to 47% of all disabled people and 80% of non-disabled people (NAS 2016). Social enterprise within Autism Initiatives delivers an exciting range of supported work placements, tailored to the individual needs of autistic adults and teenagers within real and established businesses in the North West.
After making a successful referral, we meet with every potential young person to assess their needs and suitability. If everyone is happy to proceed, we will work together to develop an autism specific placement for them. This is usually fixed-term, and can be tailored and supported by fully trained staff who also have additional practice support.
“I want to just say Thank you for absolutely everything you have ever done for me…you have been amazing and have always gone above and beyond for me. I wish I could put into words how much I am grateful for everything you have done for me and how much of a difference you really made.” Student on placement
How it works
We currently run three social enterprises, all located in and around the Southport area of Merseyside. Each enterprise has a different focus and its own distinct identity and customer base, which means they are all able to provide different opportunities for autistic people.
- Discover our award-winning café A Great Little Place within The Atkinson, Southport
- Find out more about MeCycle Café & Bike Workshop located in the heart of Ainsdale
- Explore WeGrow our award-winning ‘green’ enterprise growing and selling vegetables, herbs and free range eggs
Find out more
Funding is required to access social enterprise. This can come from local authorities, education establishments, or can be self-funded. Please click here to make an enquiry.
“A great session for the work experience students today. We’ve had some great feedback, the students enjoyed it and they have engaged well with the tasks/activities….” School Teacher
Funding
We've helped people... and we can help you too
If you would like to know more about each of the individual social enterprises initiatives, please visit the micro-sites accessible via the main menu to learn more.
“J has loved every minute of your fantastic opportunity. Ewe and every member of the Team have been ABSOLUTELY AMAZING, they have gone out of their way to make J feel at home, totally at ease and supported, she has learned new skills and been given new challenges and experiences, some of which were out of her comfort zone but she has grabbed these opportunities with both hands and thoroughly enjoyed them. After each session J would come home so happy, motivated, enthusiastic and looking forward to the next one.'