At Camphill Village Trust, our cafés and shops are more than just places to eat, drink or shop – they’re vibrant, inclusive spaces where lives are transformed.
We run a variety of cafés and shops across our communities in England, each one a social enterprise with a clear purpose: to provide meaningful work opportunities, develop life skills, and build confidence for adults with learning disabilities.
At the heart of our communities
Our social enterprises are rooted in the day-to-day life of our communities. From a warm welcome at the café counter to browsing handcrafted gifts in our shops, visitors see first-hand the creativity and dedication of the people we support.
The people we support are involved every step of the way. They help prepare the food we serve in our cafés, often made from scratch in our on-site kitchens and bakeries. Many of the items for sale in our shops – from candles and cards to textiles and home décor – are created during supported arts and crafts sessions, part of our wider Nature-based Therapies and Skills Programme.
This farm-to-fork and craft-to-customer approach gives people real, hands-on experience in a working environment, with the guidance and encouragement they need to thrive.
More than just work experience
Working in our cafés and shops offers so much more than practical skills. It’s about growing in confidence, making friends, and feeling part of a team. People develop communication and social skills, customer service experience, and a strong sense of responsibility and pride.
It’s also a stepping stone to future opportunities. Several people we’ve supported have used the experience they’ve gained in our social enterprises to move on to paid jobs elsewhere – a huge and inspiring achievement that reflects their hard work and determination. For example, Sophie, who attended our supported day activities in our St Albans’ community Cafe on the Corner for six years where she trained in food hygiene, customer service, and barista training. Most importantly, she has grown in confidence and become an amazing advocate for herself and others and has left us to step closer to paid employment.
Opening the door to opportunity
Our social enterprises offer a flexible, supported environment where people can learn at their own pace. Volunteering in a café or shop is often the start of a journey toward greater independence, wellbeing, and purpose.
Whether someone is baking bread, stocking shelves, crafting greeting cards or chatting to customers, they’re building valuable life skills and being part of something meaningful.
Every visit makes a difference
Every time someone visits one of our cafés, buys a handmade gift, or supports our online shop, they’re helping to create opportunities. It’s not just about making a purchase – it’s about supporting inclusion, empowerment and community.
Because at the heart of every coffee served and every candle sold, there’s a story of someone growing in confidence, learning new skills, and living a life of opportunity.
Find out more about our social enterprises and their locations or browse the products in our online shop.
