Local Co-operative Crafts Community Spirit
A local co-operative business is chiselling, sanding, and painting its way to success with the help of a unique and inspiring group of people.
Endeavour Woodcraft of Ferryhill has been running out of the Old Fire Station for over 11 years and takes an innovative approach to creating all sorts of products from bird tables to bookcases. The work is completed by a fantastic group of people, all of whom have a range of disabilities. The co-operative gives people the chance to gain wood working and painting knowledge, but also provides the opportunity to develop communication, life and social skills. Gary looks after health & safety, while Streven handles meeting agendas and minutes, but it’s not just the opportunity to gain these “business” skills that makes the co-operative such an inspiring place to be. Working as a team and interacting with co-workers is part of every member’s daily routine, everyone gets the chance to grow in confidence and discover their own abilities. Everyone works together to run the business and each individual brings something of their own personality and character to the co-operative.
The co-operative also provides a learning environment for John and Louise, two young employees who, as well as supporting the groups and teaching the various craft techniques, also study for their NVQ2 in Health & Social Care.
Louise commented:
“It’s such a great place to work. We all learn new things everyday and helping the team grow and develop is really rewarding. It’s just such a positive place to work.”
The work is supported by Durham County Council Social Services department, but the commercial aspect of the co-operative means that the products, designed and created are retailed to schools, nurseries and community groups, as well as the general public. The items are of the highest quality, handcrafted with care, love and attention, each one a testament to the hard work and dedication of the co-operative.
The co-operative is currently helping 11 people get involved in the business; some come from as far as Peterlee and have to travel over an hour to get there. It’s one of the rare finds in our society that makes you smile. Something you can look at and be pleased as punch is happening on your doorstep. With endless tales of doom and gloom it’s easy to forget lots of good people do a lot of good work in our community and this is one of those cases. The wood and craft products the group produces are great, colourful and with a handmade quality that you don’t see very often. But the real successes of the project are the positive impact the group has on peoples’ lives.
Elizabeth Hill, who manages the day to day operations of the co-operative commented:
“Everyone here gets so much out of getting involved. I’ve seen people grow in confidence and ability and can now watch people gain the skills and knowledge they need to get the best out of their lives, both at Endeavour and in other areas of their life. It may take a little longer with our group, but what we create as an end product is unique.”
The co-operative will continue to work in the local community. Producing woodcraft products and the like for years to come, but will also help the current group and those who join in the future to build their confidence and gain the skills and experience which will help them on their way.
For more information on Endeavour Woodcrafts contact Elizabeth Hill on 01740 657676
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