Grants & Philanthropy

When candidates begin training in one of our three Brighton-based cafés, this is usually their very first experience of a workplace. These vibrant, public-facing cafés provide a supported yet realistic environment where our candidates gain life-changing work experience – opportunities that young people with learning disabilities are too often excluded from.

Specialist Training Mentors guide our candidates every step of the way, supporting them to build the foundational skills, confidence and independence they need to take the leap into external workplaces. Last year, 89% of candidates felt that their café training is preparing them for work.

This place has changed my life…In the cafés, I’ve been growing my confidence with baking and making drinks on the coffee machine. I feel ready for the future and like I can do anything!

Laoisha, Team Domenica Candidate

Our dedicated Employment Centre works closely with 60 employers across Sussex, to create the accessible work placements and employment opportunities that simply do not exist for our candidates.

Our Employer Centre expertly match each candidate to a workplace, based on their skills and ambitions. They also work with each employer to carve out a role that supports our young people to flourish. And these partnerships don’t just benefit candidates; partnered employers also gain skilled candidates joining their teams and more inclusive workplaces for all.

I love my job. When I was at college, I didn’t believe I could get paid work, I didn’t think I’d ever have a purpose in life, but being in the workplace feels astounding.

Oskar, Team Domenica candidate and employee at Theatre Royal Brighton

Team Domenica’s support doesn’t just stop when a candidate secures paid work. So that each young person can sustain a job they love, we provide ongoing support to both them and their employer. This includes regular contact and hands-on assistance to navigate any challenges that arise at work. Thanks to this support, 94% of candidates sustain their paid role for at least one year – and often, they do so for many more. This in stark contrast with the national picture, where just 25% of the young people with learning disabilities who complete a supported internship are still in their paid role after one year (FE Week, 2022).

I really appreciate having wrap around support. It feels nice that Team Domenica doesn’t just let us go. I’m confident at work, but I feel more comfortable knowing there’s someone to help if I have a problem.

Sam, Team Domenica candidate and employee at Pizza Pilgrims Brighton