Hove business run by disabled workers celebrates cash and carry success

A Hove business run by disabled workers has celebrated its latest success as a disabled man from Brighton has left for a cash and carry store.

Joe Wadmore joined Able and Willing, at the Knoll Business Centre in Old Shoreham Road, Hove, four months ago.

He has now moved from the supported business for people with disabilities to a full-time job at Bestways Cash and Carry store in Hollingbury.

Mr Wadmore said: “When I first started at Able and Willing, I felt comfortable. No one treated me differently and no one looked down on me because of my disability.

“Since I have been there my confidence has grown. When I went into interviews for a new job I felt less nervous. I also felt confident to enough to join in the week-long training for the new job.”

Able and Willing is part of the Adult Social Care Department of Brighton and Hove City Council.

It employs people with a variety of disabilities and they specialise in embroidery, printing and providing garments for a wide range of businesses and organisations.

The chairman of the council’s Adult Care and Health Committee, Councillor Rob Jarrett, said: “Able and Willing is all about helping people who have a disability to develop their skills and confidence.

“Not everyone who works there is able to make the transition to full-time employment so we’re all delighted at Joe’s success.”

Able and Willing will be expected to make significant budget savings in the year from April if the Greens’ proposed 4.75 per cent council tax rise is voted down.

Labour has asked the Greens to look again at this element of the budget and may amend the budget with Conservative backing.