"Everyone can do a job" - that's the message from the Founder of Wootton's Care In The Garden, who's urging Islanders with disabilities to sign up to its enterprise schemes.
The firm was initially created as a community company to offer work experience and opportunities to Islanders with disabilities and dementia.
It has the capacity for another twelve Islanders to join the team and Founder and Director, John Goodenough says "the doors are open to anyone".
It has been operating for nine years and initially focused on garden maintenance but has now expanded to offer five enterprises which include:
- Blossoms Floristry
- Petals Jewellery
- Garden Decorator
- Artwork
- The Tool Shed
There are currently vacancies - some with less capacity than others - in all of the areas.
Blossoms Floristry was set up to teach floristry skills and produces some beautiful flower arrangements using either real, or artificial flowers and these are sold at the nursery.
Meanwhile, The Tool Shed was created for supported worker Anton, who with the help of his work buddy has learnt how to refurbish old tools, which he also sells at the nursery.
The work-buddies scheme also sees the team at Care In The Garden join forces with Island companies, who offer them employment packages.
You can also look out for The Mower Men, who often get out and about in the community to help with planting contracts across the Island.
Scroll through pictures of Care In The Garden here:
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John Goodenough is the Founder and Director, he told Isle of Wight Radio:
"We are pioneering a way of working with people through the company that proves everyone can do a job...We are here to offer whatever is suitable for the individual.
"There is a place in the working world, for everybody who wants to participate in that and that's what this company is all about."
With the help of the community's generosity and grants, the firm is now able to support three individuals who are setting up their own businesses.
John added:
"I can't believe it's been nine years and the journey we have taken. We couldn't have done it alone. We have had some good luck, worked hard and met some lovely people so I want to say thank you to them all."
How do you sign up?
John said if you are interested in signing up you must call him at the centre or visit it in person and express an interest in learning new skills.
He also says 'taster days' will be taking place this year so you can come along and try out some of the schemes on offer in person.
You can call John on 01983 506059 or email
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