Last year, the Brewers Foundation donated 60 litres of paint to Props, a charity in Bristol who support adults with learning disabilities through skills development, professional training and employment opportunities. They used the paint to create a mural for the first disability led brewery in the UK and this year have built their first high street café and Enterprise Hub in Fishponds.
Crafted by Props is their latest social enterprise to join the Props family – Tapestry by Props brewery, Vassall Cafe by Props, Cycle Hub by Props and Workshop by Props.
Props’ mission is to create an inclusive society by empowering adults who have learning disabilities to achieve purposeful and rewarding work opportunities. Their work is deeply integrated within the wider community to challenge perceptions of what people who have learning disabilities should expect from society. Props foster independence and support people to grow in all aspects of their lives.
Simon Brewer, CEO of Brewers Decorator Centres adds: "We were really excited to be able to help this fantastic organisation once again, with the donation of a wide variety of colours and finishes to completely transform the café. Over the last year they have transformed a run-down retail unit on Fishponds Road, creating a welcoming and inclusive venue that serves and celebrates the diverse needs and perspectives of everyone in the community, especially those too often excluded from accessing public spaces."
A key area of the café that needed decoration is the ‘trainee quiet space’ giving trainees who want to work for the café space for time away from the public if they need it. The café will train and employ up to 60 adults with learning disabilities, the first of its kind in the wider region.
As Simon concludes, "The new café looks absolutely incredible, and we were thrilled to be able to support such an exciting new opportunity for so many people!"