Active Prospects has launched its first ever charity shop on Horley High Street, which was opened by Deputy Mayor of Horley, Councillor Frank Kelly on Thursday 22 June 2017.
Active Prospects provides residential and supported living services across Surrey for adults with learning disabilities, physical and mental health needs. With the launch of its first charity shop Active Prospects continues to empower local people with learning disabilities to live aspiring lives.
Like all charity shops, the aim is to raise funds, but this shop will also offer 18 supported volunteer opportunities to people Active Prospects’ supports, helping them to gain the skills and experience that will help them progress to paid work. Five community volunteers will help to run the shop and act as ‘buddies’ for the supported volunteers.
Sue Stockman Head of Business Development at Active Prospects said: “After months of planning, it’s great to see our first enterprise ready to open. It will be a great way for local people to support people with learning disabilities and mental health needs living within their own community.”
Deputy Mayor, Councillor Kelly said: “Having worked in the NHS for many years, I know how the lives of those with learning disabilities has been transformed over recent years. Active Prospects’ work, and in particular that of the people they support, just shows what people can do, given the opportunity. I am delighted that Active Prospects are pioneering this approach and supporting and enriching the lives of people with learning disabilities in our community.”
Mara Broome, Active Prospects Board Chairman said: “We have been supporting local people with learning disabilities, physical and mental health needs for over 30 years. The charity shop is the first of what we hope will be many social enterprises, enabling us to offer supported volunteering opportunities to the people we support.”
The shop got off to a great start with the donation of a very special Vivienne Westwood designer dress, still with the original price tag of £395 in place!
Anyone wishing to donate stock for the shop, please drop in to 4 High Street, Horley, or contact the Shop Manager on 01293 786697 or email charityshop@activeprospects.org.uk.
