Supporting people with learning disabilities
WE LISTEN. WE ACT. WE CARE.
Grapevine Essex was founded in January 2012 by Jackie Holland and Vanessa Hellier and we have over 170 members.
We are honoured to have Peter Turrall MBE as our President, and Lord Petre, 18th Baron Petre KCVO as our Patron.
Jackie’s role as Chair of the Board of Trustees and Charity Manager includes planning and organising all the activities and events for members, managing the accounts and overseeing the general running of the charity.
Vanessa’s role as Member Support Manager involves organising the support for members and supervising the volunteer team. She also runs our two weekly clubs during term times: Club Grapevine and the Dance Group.
Mary Schultz works alongside Vanessa in providing support for members and organises the Art and Craft Workshops.
Jane Crossman is the Funding and Administrative Officer and she helps Jackie in applying for grants and various other administrative duties, as well as volunteering at our events and Club nights.
Adrian Heighes is a Support Assistant for people with complex needs. He is qualified in health and social care and is a fantastic addition to the Grapevine team.
Vanessa, Jane and Adrian hold HSE accredited Level 1 First Aid at Work certification. They are trained in Epilepsy Awareness and are also qualified to administer Buccal Midazolam.
Other support staff and volunteers are offered ‘Emergency First Aid at Work Level 3’ first aid training. All our staff and volunteers have enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance.
Grapevine Essex is committed to providing an excellent and professional service to adults with learning disabilities; comprising affordable, confidence building and educational opportunities that teach life skills, support independent living and improve employability.
The fully supported outings and activities provided ensure valuable respite to parents and carers, in addition to raising acceptance and awareness of adults with learning disabilities within the general public.
Most of all, we are dedicated to ensuring our members have fun, develop friendships and enhance their lives within a safe, supportive and friendly environment.
Our purpose, our values, our services
| Board of Trustees |
| Our President |
| Merchandise |
| Dance Group |
| Club Grapevine |