The Work Project (Yew Tree Hub)

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The Work Project: Building Skills and Confidence

At City Care Partnership, we believe that meaningful work — whether paid or voluntary — is essential for wellbeing, confidence, and inclusion. Our Work Party group provides individuals with the opportunity to gain practical skills, connect with nature, and make a positive impact on their community.

Why Work Matters

Approximately 1.4 million people in the UK have a learning disability, but 1.3 million of them are unemployed. The 2016 Department of Work and Pensions green paper (Improving Lives) clearly states:

“The evidence is clear that work and health are linked.”

While Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) supports around 1.5 million people, the paper acknowledges that there is little practical support to help individuals into work. The report also highlights that:

“The longer a person is out of work, the more their health and wellbeing is likely to deteriorate…so every day matters.”

For people with a learning disability, finding work is often complicated by benefit rules and pay issues. Yet, research consistently shows that work is good for health and happiness. Whether paid or unpaid, it helps:

Build confidence and self-esteem
Foster a sense of purpose and validation
Contribute to physical and mental wellbeing

🌱 Work Party: Practical, Inclusive, and Purposeful

At City Care, we recognise that working outdoors can be especially beneficial, offering:

Increased lifespan and better overall wellbeing
Reduced symptoms of depression
Improved functional abilities and independence
Social interaction and teamwork opportunities

The Work Party group provides practical, meaningful activities, including:

Gardening: Tending to plants, growing vegetables, and maintaining green spaces
Woodwork: Building and crafting using sustainable materials
Building and Maintenance: Practical projects that improve our facilities
Horticulture: Growing flowers and crops, with hands-on learning
General Maintenance: Keeping our spaces safe, tidy, and welcoming

The Work project includes vocational training

seed boxes are created in the workshop

the seeds are planted and prepared in the potting shed

The resulting harvest is shared amongst the houses

🌿 Our Outdoor Spaces: Accessible and Welcoming

We have developed the Work Party project over the past four years, creating a space that is both practical and inclusive. Our facilities include:

Three distinct allotments for vegetable gardening
Three raised beds specifically designed for those with physical disabilities, ensuring that everyone can participate

By working with nature, individuals develop new skills, gain confidence, and experience the therapeutic benefits of outdoor activity.

🌍 Social Horticulture: Growing Community Connections

Research shows that social horticulture benefits a wide range of people, including those who are vulnerable or socially excluded. Through gardening and outdoor work, individuals gain:

Social inclusion through teamwork and collaboration
Skill development in a supportive, hands-on environment
Improved mental health through active engagement with nature

Building Brighter Futures

Our Work Party group is more than just an activity — it’s a pathway to personal growth, community involvement, and lasting positive change. Whether building a garden bed or maintaining a workshop, every contribution matters and is celebrated.

News

Welcome to City Care Caelan!

Caelan moved into Broom Lane in November 2024; Ellen (Team Leader) shares her thoughts and observations on his move.

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Skills for Care create whole new film from hike footage!

On a recent Bimble we were joined by a film crew from Skills for Care.

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Skills for Care create whole new film from hike footage!

Maxlife latest issue!

The latest edition of MaxLife, the magazine of City Care partnership, is available to view and download here.

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Work with us

Why Work with us? Community Access Support Partner - The Role Our recruitment process When you start Meet the staff Current Vacancies Team Leader reference request

What We Do

Positive Behaviour Support Central Support Team Safeguarding & Whistleblowing MusicFest 2024 Values In Action MaxLife back issues Visitor policy

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Activities

Hiking and Walking Cycling and Sports Arts and Crafts (Yew Tree Hub) Yew Tree Stables and Urban Farm: Connection Through Animal Care Voice Training, Music and Performance (Yew Tree Hub) The Work Project (Yew Tree Hub)

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