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'I want to help others with additional needs thrive'

George Scotland
BBC News, West Midlands
BBC Roger Cufflin in his card shop. He is standing in front of a card stand. He is wearing glasses and a grey suit jacket, white shirt and grey jumper.BBC
Roger Cufflin says people with additional needs are too often excluded from society

After a long career in the banking sector, Roger Cufflin says he was able to make a success of himself while living with additional needs.

So when he set up the Munch card shop in Chelmsley Wood in the West Midlands a year ago, he wanted to do something to help others like him.

The 52-year-old said people with learning difficulties and other disabilities deserve a chance in society but are too often overlooked.

It is something he is trying to change by inviting young adults to volunteer at his business and gain valuable skills.

"A lot of companies have not got the time or the patience to actually be with somebody and train them," he said.

"They just want somebody to come in and do the job and get it done."

The Munch card shop in Chelmsley Wood town centre. It says MUNCH CARDS & GIFTS YOU PROBABLY WON'T GET A MUNCH BETTER SELECTION OF CARDS. You can see cards and gifts in the shop window. There is a co-operative travel next door.
The Munch card shop in Chelmsley Wood town centre

Last year, a government report found young people with additional needs faced barriers securing long-term work.

The government said it had invested millions in supported internships for those aged 16-24 with special needs or disabilities.

But the House of Lords Public Services Committee said more would thrive if they had the right support.

That's something Mr Cufflin agreed with.

"As long as a person is prepared to learn and actually do the job, I have got all the time in the world for them," he explained.

"I don't care how long it takes. As long as they improve, that's all that counts."

Aditi Bellam is smiling at the camera. There are gift bags behind her. She is wearing a pink top.
Aditi Bellam has been volunteering at Munch since January

For people like Callum Cockerill, 20, and Aditi Bellam, 18, who volunteer at Munch, the opportunity can be hugely beneficial.

"I started at Munch in January this year," said Ms Bellam.

"I am confident; I am more happy, I am less anxious. I am able to communicate better and work as part of a team. I feel valued and productive."

Mr Cockerill added: "It's built my confidence back up after getting rejected for so many jobs. It's given me skills with people."

Callum Cockerill is in the Munch card shop. He is wearing a navy blue hooded top with the word "Bench" in white lettering on it and he is smiling at the camera. There are cards and gifts behind him.
Callum Cockerill says his confidence has improved

Mr Cufflin's shop now welcomes 10 people who do two hours of work a week on a voluntary basis.

He wants to continue taking on volunteers and giving others a chance who might not otherwise get one.

"People with additional needs can do the job just as well as anybody else, so give them the opportunity," Mr Cufflin added.

"If you run a business, take on people with additional needs. They're not being given a chance in society."

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