Benefiting a community

Community Interest Companies (CIC’s) are limited companies with special additional features created for the use of people who want to conduct a business for community benefit. This is achieved by a ‘community interest test’ and ‘asset lock’, ensuring the CIC is established for community purposes and with profits dedicated to these purposes. For further information go to www.cicregulator.gov.uk

Graphic Design and Print Community Interest Company, limited by guarantee, has been set-up to benefit people with learning disabilities. We will employ people with learning disabilities, provide modern apprenticeships and offer training with 120 places available a year. The company is registered with the UK Register of Learning Providers.

Founding directors Stephen and Lillian Mollison have diverse work careers. Both have a commitment to social inclusion and equality of opportunity which has instilled an interest in looking for new ideas and innovative solutions in developing a community where everyone enjoys the benefits of prosperity, and where everyone has chances to work and to learn. Stephen is a graphic designer and has the commercial experience from management to expert hands-on skills in design, print and training. Lillian is a registered social worker, received advanced specialist training as an approved social worker, has practiced in all care fields and managed both within an area team and residential settings. Two other advisors have been linked to the company to offer expert assistance.

GDP CIC was borne out of our work and development with the graphics training project ‘Skye Through Our Eyes’, (STOE) for people with learning disabilities based on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. After two years STOE continues today, successfully creating artwork and print material for a variety of customers. Training also continues and is provided by Stephen via web cam.

GDP CIC believe people with learning disabilities are citizens first and foremost, and public services, together with the private sector, need to respond appropriately. This means that the responsibility to ensure all people can enter the workforce is a community-based responsibility not one simply for health and social care.

Individuals are offered real life chances, with paid employment and the experience to work for a company that is commercially focused. Other benefits include a chance of independence, inclusion into the wider community and choice in daily life. GDP CIC will ensure people work within an environment that is safe, providing an anti-oppressive workplace, having respect for all, and a commitment to empower people to reach their full potential.