Elvis’ Success Story
Creating Pathways into Work: 1066 Bakery & Café and Little Gate Supported Employment
At Little Gate Supported Employment, we believe meaningful employment changes lives. Our partnership with 1066 Bakery & Café shows what’s possible when inclusive employers create alternative pathways into work.
About 1066 Bakery & Café
1066 Bakery & Café is a long-standing, family-run business in Hastings, known for its fresh breads, cakes and coffee. With multiple locations and strong community roots, the business is committed to ensuring its workforce reflects the local community.
After discussions with Area Manager Sergi Bernat, the Conquest Hospital coffee shop was identified as a suitable location to explore a supported employment opportunity. Coffee Shop Manager Danielle Daubney fully embraced the idea.
Elvis’ Journey into Employment
Following a work trial supported by Job Coach Oli Rumball, Elvis was offered a paid Kitchen Assistant role one day a week, starting at 6am to allow for a quieter, structured environment.
From the outset, 1066 Bakery were clear: while they wanted to provide new pathways into work, standards and customer satisfaction remained paramount. With the right support in place, Elvis rose to the challenge.
Oli provided on-the-job coaching, working closely with Danielle and the kitchen supervisors to ensure Elvis could build speed while maintaining quality. Week by week, Elvis’ confidence and efficiency grew. He responded positively to feedback and steadily developed his skills.
Although the early start required a significant lifestyle adjustment, Elvis embraced the change. Initially cycling to work with support and guidance around road safety, he has since developed the confidence to travel by bus independently – opening up even more independence beyond the workplace.
After successfully passing his probation, Elvis is now progressing in the kitchen and has begun preparing paninis and toasties – a reflection of the trust and skills he has built.
The Impact
Although Elvis works one day a week, the impact has been profound.
He has:
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Built confidence in a commercial kitchen
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Developed food preparation and safety skills
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Integrated into a workplace team
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Adapted to new routines and responsibilities
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Attended a Christmas social independently
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Gained travel independence
Danielle reports that the whole Conquest team embraced Elvis’ appointment. Awareness of Autism has increased, team morale has benefited, and the experience has strengthened inclusive practice within the business.
In Their Own Words
Sergi Bernat, Area Manager (on behalf of the 1066 Senior Management Team):
“Working alongside Little Gate has been a genuinely positive experience for everyone at 1066 Bakery, and the guidance and support they provide around working with people with Autism has given us the confidence, understanding and tools to create an inclusive, supportive workplace where individuals like Elvis can truly thrive.”
Danielle Daubney, Coffee Shop Manager:
“Working with Little Gate has been a fulfilling and positive experience all round. The support we received made the process straightforward, and the impact on our team has been significant. It’s been great to be part of Elvis’ development.”
Oli Rumball, Job Coach:
“1066 Bakery has been incredibly supportive of Elvis and his progression in his role in the kitchen. They have made accommodations to aid Elvis in his development and implemented strategies suitably spaced and paced to the needs of Elvis, developing Elvis’ skills week on week to become a key member of the team.
It has been great to work with an employer who is open to suggestions and forward in their actions to create an inclusive environment for Elvis.”
Elvis:
“The people are what makes this job great, they are welcoming and friendly. I now have a social life and people to talk to outside of the virtual world.”
This partnership demonstrates how inclusive employment benefits everyone – building confidence, strengthening teams and creating meaningful opportunities within the community.
A huge thank you to everyone at 1066 Bakery & Café for their ongoing support.
If your business would like to explore supported employment with Little Gate, we would love to hear from you. Please email our head of Supported Employment, Sam – samanderson@littlegate.org.uk