2024 Shortlisted Nominee
Community Organisation Award: Disability
Level Best Enterprises is a social enterprise in Colchester that provides meaningful work and life skills training opportunities to young adults and people with learning disabilities. From their new café and gallery, trainees engage in four enterprise projects: kitchen, café, gardening, seasonal, and art, developing independence and confidence through personal and professional development. Supported by trained staff, trainees prepare and serve meals in the café using produce from their allotments and local greengrocers, creating a community hub. The Gardening Enterprise grows and forages local produce, while the Seasonal Enterprise prepares jams and chutneys sold in the café. Art Trainees work in various media, exhibiting their work in the café and external galleries. Level Best collaborates with local charities, colleges, and businesses, offering workshops and integrating trainees into cultural life.