Our Story

Welcome to THE WASHCLUB, a Chelmsford based social enterprise set up to tackle the shocking statistics that show ‘only 5.1% of adults with a learning disability known to their local authority in England, are in paid work” (NHS digital, 2021). 

Our mission is simple: to help young people and adults with learning disabilities and autism to build their skills, confidence, independence and pride by working in a real business environment. This includes all aspects of the business, from designing and producing products to packaging, delivery, marketing and sales. 

This is their enterprise, selling soaps, candles and wax melts. We are here to support them, embracing differences and creating opportunities - we really hope you join us!

 

Individuals with learning disabilities and autism often struggle to find paid work, not because of a lack of ability, but because of misconceptions meaning they are not given the chance. 

We support some amazing individuals with fantastic talents and skills, for example incredible artists and performers, people that have an eye for detail and people that love repetition. THE WASHCLUB aims to create a space where they can use those talents and learn valuable skills in an environment that is flexible to their needs with a high level of quality support, to build confidence and skills. Whilst others may be driven by profits, we are driven by providing the right environment for our staff to achieve!

And in their words, this is why it means so much:

‘I like working for THE WASHCLUB because it gets me out into society and helps me interact with new people’

‘THE WASHCLUB gives me experience in different types of employment’

‘I love working in THE WASHCLUB and hearing about all the success we do, and getting other people involved with disabilities in employment’.

'I love seeing the customers smiles & nice comments & reviews'

PLUS, we are proud to say each and every one of our products look and smell AMAZING! 

When you become a Washclub customer, you are not only buying a lovely product but it’s an opportunity to really make a difference, to empower another young person or adult with a learning disability or autism. 

We are confident that you will love our products as much as our team, and will keep coming back time and time again!

THE WASHCLUB is proud to be a part of Independence Clubs CIC, a not for profit company that works with young adults with autism and learning disabilities to create social and engaging experiences and activities. These include community projects, social events and holidays, all dedicated to increasing life skills and reducing social isolation within the SEND community.

We strongly believe everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve independence!