A valued social enterprise in Ilminster, Somerset, is seeking urgent support as it faces financial challenges that threaten its future. Silver Linings, an internship programme led by Evelyn Ashford, runs the Gamesmaster café and Punky Dory alternative clothing shop on Silver Street, aiming to empower young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) through work experience and education.
For seven years, Silver Linings has provided critical opportunities to help SEND youth gain independence and prepare for employment. However, recent government funding cuts have forced Ms. Ashford into approximately £60,000 personal debt to keep the programme running. In a public appeal, the café and shop have displayed window placards with messages such as “Starmer stole our future,” “save our jobs,” and “we ain’t got no education,” underscoring their urgent need for support.
Conservative Councillor Sue Osborne, who represents Ilminster and nearby villages, demanded a prompt meeting with SEND officers during the Somerset Council’s executive committee meeting on June 4 in Taunton. Osborne, who visited the café during its open awareness event on May 23, described Silver Linings as a “lifeline” for SEND young people, providing a gold standard supported internship encompassing work experience, education, and emotional support.
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Osborne highlighted funding challenges arising from government changes to the ‘access to work’ programme, which affect Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) financial support. A key issue involves whether Silver Linings’ services should be funded through Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) or categorized as a supported internship, leading to funding and eligibility disputes. Meanwhile, Somerset Council has faced delays and fines related to EHCP processing, causing further complications.
Despite these hurdles, the council has expressed willingness to engage with Silver Linings. Councillor Heather Shearer, portfolio holder for children and families, pledged to visit the facility alongside other council members and advisors. She confirmed ongoing collaboration with Silver Linings over the past 18 months and expressed commitment to help meet funding requirements for SEND young people.
Councillor Osborne emphasized the indispensable nature of Silver Linings not only for Ilminster but surrounding communities, including Taunton, warning of the grave impact if the programme closes. She called on the council to act swiftly to protect this vital resource for vulnerable residents, particularly given the limited social provisions available locally.
Supporters are encouraged to contribute to Silver Linings’ crowdfunding campaign to help sustain this crucial initiative.