Maltings Woodcraft opens
Released: 15 August 2007
A woodworking enterprise which helps people with physical and sensory disabilities learn new skills and gain employment opened this week.
The Maltings Woodcraft social enterprise was officially opened by the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Trudy Bowen.
Run by Wolverhampton City Council, the venture has grown out of a series of popular woodworking sessions at Maltings Day Centre led by staff member Ian Loveday, who is trained as a boat builder.
He helped disabled users of the centre develop their practical skills by making a range of wood products.
Now they have gone into business, producing a range of indoor and outdoor furniture and offering a woodcutting and repair service from their new base at Fordhouse Road Industrial Estate, Steel Drive, Fordhouses.
Brenda Stafford, the council’s acting Head of Service for Physical and Sensory Disabilities, said: “The launch went very well and we look forward to linking with local businesses and colleges.
“There has already been interest from people finding difficulty getting anyone to undertake furniture repairs or ‘one off’ jobs. One member of the public has even enquired about having a dovecote constructed.”
Up to 10 disabled people will be working at Maltings Woodcraft every day, picking up vital skills and increasing their chances of finding permanent employment.
Brenda added: “The service users are really enthusiastic about it so we are confident it will be a success.”
The opening took place on Monday, August 13. To find out more about Maltings Woodcraft, call Ian Loveday on 07766 473149 or Ginette Mackriel on 01902 553558.
Issued by the press office.