Visit highlights ‘social success’ as Colebridge...

A social enterprise that provides training, work experience and employment for people with learning disabilities is celebrating assembling its 4 millionth automotive part.

The milestone achievement for Colebridge Enterprises was recognised by ‘Social Value Act’ champion Hazel Blears, who received a guided tour of its Solihull factory before helping to package the landmark component.

Organised by Social Enterprise West Midlands (SEWM) and Social Enterprise UK, the visit also saw the Labour MP and Meriden Constituency candidate Tom McNeil chat to bosses about the opportunities and challenges it faces in securing new contracts and sustaining the growth it has enjoyed since it started in 2012.

She also chatted to members of staff who range from 18 to 55 years-old and have some form of learning disability or have been unemployed for a long time.

“It’s fantastic that we have been involved in assembling and packing 4 million components in just over two years,” explained Dave Pinwell, CEO of Colebridge Trust.

“The majority of this work has been for tier 1 automotive suppliers. This is due to our location in the heart of the Midlands automotive sector, but we can work with any company that wants high quality light assembly or packing work.”

He continued: “Our role is to get individuals back into the work environment by giving them additional support and access to learning opportunities. It’s a launchpad into longer-term employment.

“It was great to show Hazel Blears around, someone who is very passionate about increasing the importance of social value both in the public and private sector.”

Colebridge Enterprises were not the only social enterprise to be highlighted on the visit, with Gro-Organic showcasing its World War II Victory Garden in Chelmsley Wood.

The Community Interest Company (CIC) uses a commercial poly heated tunnel to grow world vegetables that act as a source of fresh produce for the new BAME community who have moved there.

Hazel Blears, MP for Salford and Eccles, commented: “The workers at Colebridge clearly enjoy coming to work; they can earn a wage, learn valuable skills and do a great job for the automotive industry - it's a win win for everyone. 

Melanie Mills, Chief Executive of Social Enterprise West Midlands, added her support:

“Colebridge Enterprises has delivered every single one of those 4 million parts on time and has achieved 99.98% right first time quality levels - an achievement very few industry rivals can match! Better still, the absolute and compelling bonus is the social value this business creates.”