A café that creates workplace opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and autism has reopened its doors to the public, offering volunteers the chance to develop new skills, build confidence and gain valuable experience in a supportive environment.
Located at Ely Community Centre, the rebranded New Leaf Café, is run through Cambridgeshire County Council's Supporting into Work programme, which supports adults with learning disabilities and autism to develop skills and move towards employment.
On Tuesday (29 September) , the Café opened celebrated its re-opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and speech from Councillor Christine Whelan, the County Council's local member for Ely South.
Among those helping to bring the café to life is Chris Jamieson, who has learning disabilities and autism and recently joined the café as a volunteer worker.
"I am really looking forward to the cafe opening, it's a great place to learn and I'm looking forward to meeting new people. It's great to learn new skills and be more independent. The food is also amazing too," said Chris.
The café provides a welcoming environment where volunteers can gain hands-on experience in customer service, food preparation and teamwork, while developing the confidence and skills needed for future employment opportunities.
As well as helping volunteers develop workplace skills, the café provides a friendly space for residents to enjoy a hot drink, a bite to eat and connect with others.
Cllr Luis Navarro, Vice-Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council's Adults and Health Committee, said: "New Leaf Café brings to life our vision of creating a healthy, fair and sustainable Cambridgeshire. By providing tailored learning opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and autism, we're helping people build confidence, develop skills and live more independent lives.
"At the same time, the café offers a welcoming space where residents can come together, enjoy good food and company, and build stronger community connections. It's a fantastic example of how inclusive opportunities can benefit both individuals and the wider community."
New Leaf Café is one of several projects delivered through the council's Supporting into Work programme, alongside Blossom and Bloom Café and TAG bikes in Huntingdon and Hotpots Café in March.
The café is currently welcoming new volunteers aged 18 and over with learning disabilities and autism, offering opportunities to gain experience, learn new skills and become part of the team.
You can visit the New Leaf Café between 10:30 - 14:30, Tuesday - Friday at the Ely Community Centre.
