The Story of Camtrust

Camtrust is a Cambridge-based Charity which was set up in 1993 in response to a feasibility study which identified the need for Further Education opportunities for young adults with physical disabilities, mental problems, and learning difficulties. At the time, there were a number of centres offering day-care, but very little available in the way of provision of further education and training.

After a period of fundraising, Camtrust was initially set up in Willingham. Having been successful in winning a National Lottery bid, Camtrust was able to take up a 10-year lease on a property in Kendal Court in Impington. When the lease ran out, Camtrust had to close down until they were offered the opportunity to rent the current premises in Cambridge Road, Impington. The opening ceremony, at which Dr Mary Archer officiated, took place in January 2008.

The main objective is to offer students better opportunities when it comes to gaining employment, whether it is paid or voluntary. Students are aged from 16 years upwards and the courses are open to people from all walks of life.

Camtrust is unique, with the teaching being conducted within a commercial print and design environment. The tuition offered includes City & Guilds Skills for Working Life, Employability and Personal Development. The course duration varies but is generally around two years. It is a very happy and relaxed atmosphere where the students gain in confidence, make friends and develop many skills.

The commercial activity complements the teaching course as each student is encouraged to actively engage their individual skills in design and print. This activity covers their Customer Service element, giving them valuable hands-on experience, and at the same time building their confidence and self-esteem and developing necessary life-skills.

Camtrust is community-driven and has a longstanding partnership with Huntingdonshire Regional College, which operates similar satellite partnerships within the area. Huntingdonshire Regional College provides the equipment and staff to run the courses. Apart from this provision, Camtrust is self-financing, having to raise the funds for all other running costs, including the rent. We rely on local fundraising and the profits generated from the commercial print and design services.

The trustees are working to increase the level of income to be able to provide for the current and the future needs of Camtrust. They would be very pleased to hear from anyone interested in helping in this area, or in becoming a trustee.

To find out more about how you can help Camtrust to provide these opportunities for the future, see Get Involved.

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