ALDAG has launched its first shop called ‘Re-Use It’ in Dorking’s West Street, opened by the Chairman of Mole Valley Council, Councillor Raj Haque on Sunday 20th January 2019. This is an eco-friendly charity shop with the aim of creating an employment pathway for young people with a learning disability through the practical experience of running a shop. The shop has one paid manager and a team of shop assistants who all have a learning disability.
Mandy Finch, Shop Manager said, "By training our shop assistants in a range of work skills we aim to enable our young people to progress to paid jobs in the local community. As a shop we want to have a reputation for providing an excellent service to the community and show the skills and abilities of our young people."
Pam Walden, Chair of Trustees said, "Although we started out as a charity developing social opportunities it has become very apparent that over time finding jobs, whether they are paid or voluntary, is becoming the key concern for families and individuals. We already run a cafe for 2 days a week and a gardening group who provide vegetables and flowers for our cafe and this new project is a natural development for the charity. For so many people with a learning disability there are a number of employment barriers including a lack of good quality support to maintain employment or to build confidence and skills and little understanding as to what someone with a learning disability can truly achieve with the right support."
The shop is open Tuesday to Saturday, so please drop in, meet the team and find yourself a bargain!
Donations are warmly welcome at the shop, 62a West Street, during opening times, or contact the Shop Manager on 0783 4233633 or email reuseit@aldag.org.uk