The Van Gogh Café was opened by Toucan in April 2004. The idea was to run a successful social firm that employed people with learning difficulties.

We knew from the outset that it would be a challenge for us to try and run it as commercially as possible. But we were committed to running a business that provided real paid jobs for Toucan Users.

We felt the premises at the Van Gogh offered us a good opportunity to try and run a social firm. The Café had been closed for nearly a year but was well known in the area and missed by former customers who liked the premises and the range of healthier food.

The first year was a learning process and thanks to the generosity and foresight of our funders, The Henry Smiths Trust and the LDDF, we were able to continue.

The second year was much more successful. The Café was usually packed out at lunchtimes and the takings doubled. Customers enjoyed the range and quality of the food and some shared our interest in helping people overcome disadvantages and contribute in employment.

Toucan Clients like Roger, Jeanette and Ken proved to be excellent workers and helped us to make the Café more commercially viable. Their enthusiasm and ability was really inspiring.

More than 30 people have had the chance to do a variety of paid jobs and work experiences at the Café.

The Café has now extended its opening hours and is also available for hire for parties and meetings.