Around 36 adults with learning disabilities will benefit from increased training and support thanks to a £60,000 grant from Oxfordshire Freemasons to the charity Yellow Submarine.
Yellow Submarine helps people with learning disabilities and autism live life to the fullest through activity programmes, social clubs, and a specialist traineeship aimed at building life skills, independence, and employment opportunities.
The grant will fund the charity’s Life-Changing Bakes traineeship, expanding access to work experience, skills training, and qualifications. Trainees will gain hands-on experience in Yellow Submarine’s two cafés and bakery, learning everything from baking and recipe creation to customer service—within a supportive and inclusive environment.
Only around 5% of adults with learning disabilities are in paid employment, a statistic the charity is determined to change. Yellow Submarine focuses on individuals’ abilities rather than limitations, helping them build confidence, discover purpose, and work toward a meaningful future.
The grant was awarded through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, funded by Freemasons across England and Wales.
Kate Sankey, Co-director of Yellow Submarine, said:
“We’re very grateful to Oxfordshire Freemasons for their generous grant. It will help us continue offering life and workplace skills in a safe and supportive space.”
Prof. Stephen Tucker, Head of Oxfordshire Freemasons, added:
“I’m pleased we’ve been able to support this important project helping young adults with learning disabilities and autism build the skills they need to secure employment.”
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