Practical idea for youth (From Penarth Times)

Practical idea for youth

DISABLED youngsters in the Vale now have the chance to experience the ins and outs of the working world thanks to the opening of a new shop.

Nova was officially opened by Vale mayor Cllr Margaret Alexander on Friday.

Nova, situated at 28 High Street, Barry, is a retail training project run by ValePlus, the registered charity that provides opportunities for people with disabilities.

ValePlus was set up in 2001 by two experienced special needs teachers, Melanie Carter and Steve Thomas, to cater for the ongoing needs of people with learning disabilities after they have left education.

Nova"s primary aim is to provide youngsters with retail training, and there will also be the chance for them to complete an accredited course in preparation for working life.

The shop will be run by Tricia Cahill and Tricia Johns and will be open from 9am until 4pm Monday to Friday. Three people who use the Vale Plus service will be working in the shop everyday, undertaking a range of tasks including working the till, stock taking and dealing with customers.

Nova sells cards, giftwrap, gifts, handmade jewellery and tiaras, art and art supplies, made by both the youngsters and locally-based crafts people.

Cllr Alexander said: "I think this project is absolutely brilliant. I went to Covent Garden in London recently and the jewellery that was sold ther was no better than what we have here!

"If you can buy these things on your home patch, and help a good cause, then it"s got to be a brilliant thing."