East Yorkshire poultry business supports Hull special education school

One of Driffield's biggest employers is supporting a Hull special education school by donating chicken for its cookery sessions and events.

Middleton on the Wolds-based Soanes Poultry donates its Yorkshire-reared chicken to Ganton School's Chop and Change Restaurant, which provides vital work experience for students with severe learning difficulties.

"We are immensely grateful for Soanes Poultry's continued support. Their generosity empowers our students to gain real-life work experience and opens the door to new opportunities. We invite other businesses in the food industry to join us in creating pathways to employment for young people with learning disabilities," said Asa Hancock, teacher and Project Lead, Chop and Change.

"Did you know that only 6% of adults with severe learning disabilities are in paid employment? Together, we can change that. By supporting Chop and Change, businesses like Soanes Poultry and others in the area are helping young people gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the workforce.

"Thanks to this project, our first student has now transitioned into employment, and three more students are on the path to secure job offers through the programme, but we need more partners like Soanes to help us expand and meet growing demand. Please contact me ahancock@ganton.het.academy if you may be able to help."

Soanes Poultry's Brand Ambassador, Robert Laird, delivered the latest chicken order to the school: "We are proud to supply Ganton School with free chicken for students to use in their fantastic Chop and Change initiative led by Asa. With the help of people like us and other food businesses in the area, Asa can help students with learning disabilities develop culinary skills that will benefit their future lives outside school.

"Both myself and colleagues from Soanes and Clive Soanes Broilers have really enjoyed attending Chop & Change dining events where the pupils showcase their cooking and front-of-house skills at prestigious venues like The Deep and The Hilton, and we look forward to supporting them again this academic year."

Ganton School is home to 175 students from four to 19 years. It is a thriving and inclusive community that is committed to excellence in personalised learning and well-being.

Soanes Poultry sells its Yorkshire reared chicken to butchers and independent retailers throughout Yorkshire and to wholesalers, catering butchers and restaurants nationwide.

Photo: Robert Laird, left is pictured with Asa Hancock, right and Ganton School pupils Robert Laird and Ganton School pupils