Yorkshire’s Wingspan Chocolate is flying high with sweet mission to change lives for Connect Yorkshire member Autism Plus
It’s a little moment of pure pleasure.
But with every mouthful Wingspan Chocolate delivers something even sweeter.
This is chocolate that changes lives, writes Graham Walker.
That’s the powerful message behind this Yorkshire-based Autism Plus social enterprise, which has just been relaunched with a new name, image and ambition.
Now it plans to live up to its name, spread its wings and expand its marketplace – with at least one supermarket chain looking to sell the luxury chocolates on its shelves.
Wingspan Chocolate provides meaningful work experience for autistic and neurodivergent people, including those with Down syndrome and learning disabilities.
Through its handmade chocolate factory at Bradbury House Knaresborough. and its Chocolate Shop and Café in Easingwold, it helps them develop skills, grow in confidence and build greater independence.
And every truffle crafted, every box packed and every chocolate sold helps support that life-changing mission.
The timing could hardly be sweeter as Autism Plus celebrates its 40th birthday.
It was founded in 1986 by a group of passionate parents seeking better opportunities and greater independence for their autistic children.
As the charity grew, it recognised that support alone was not enough. People also needed opportunities to gain practical skills, experience the world of work and find meaningful employment.
In 2012, Autism Plus Group Chief Executive Philip Bartey created a partnership with Ampleforth Abbey Trust to form the chocolate-making social enterprise, which until recently was called Park House Barns.
It relocated to Bradbury House Knaresborough in 2024, bringing together under one roof the Chocolate Factory and the social enterprise, The Hub, creating a shared space where support, training and valuable work experience can thrive.
Now it is reborn as Wingspan Chocolate, with a fresh identity and bigger ambitions, but the same purpose at its heart.
It is the latest chapter in a remarkable story.
One skill, one opportunity and one delicious truffle at a time – this really is chocolate that changes lives.
“This exciting new identity marks the next chapter in our journey and better reflects who we are today, our creativity, our growth and our ambitions for the future,” says the charity.
“As an Autism Plus social enterprise, we continue to create exceptional chocolate while providing meaningful opportunities for autistic people and people with learning disabilities.
“Alongside our refreshed identity, we’ve also introduced new products and continue to expand our range of handcrafted chocolates.
“The name Wingspan Chocolate represents everything that makes us unique, quality chocolate, skilled craftsmanship and a commitment to making a positive difference through every purchase.
“We’d like to thank our customers, colleagues and supporters who have been part of our journey so far. Your continued support helps us create opportunities and build a brighter future for the people we support.”
Article via yorkshirepost.co.uk
