Mission Partner: ALDAG

ALDAG’s mission is to promote the inclusion of people with learning disabilities into their local community life, through developing social and supported employment opportunities through several enterprises.

Work experience and volunteering: During 2022 we have developed partnerships with 2 F.E. colleges, 2 special schools, Surrey Choices, 2 similar charities, 2 residential settings and 50 families. Providing 29,590 hours of voluntary employment and skills training and supporting and training 36 young people with a learning disability in work skills. The 'Re-Use It' shop supported thirteen shop assistants who worked between four and sixteen hours per week. 2 trainees moved onto paid employment.

The craft workshop opened in March with a focus on carpentry and included some paid work for the Dorking United Reformed Church. We have two teams providing gardening services to the public on Mondays and Fridays each week. Our gardeners have learnt many skills working on our allotment in Ashtead and can now put those skills into practice in private gardens.

Our biggest project came to fruition last year with the fitting out of our newest enterprise, Cups & Co. on Dorking High Street, a community coffee shop, training 15 young people with a learning disability in hospitality skills. It was officially opened by the Chair of Mole Valley District Council during Dorking’s Christmas Gala night.

Social opportunities: The work and volunteering activities provide a safe space for building friendships. Our social group, Conquerors, meets at the Dell Centre on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, now led by Lilly Stewart. The Trustees, members and beneficiaries of ALDAG are grateful for the support provided by St George's and St Giles' churches. Please pray for ongoing support from the local and wider community. Tony Leach, Vice Chair