The Joshua Tree Project CIC, a Devon based business, has won its biggest ever contract to supply its bespoke furniture to student accommodation providers true Student.
The contract will enable the company to increase its work force and undertake some structural improvements to its workshops.
The social enterprise will provide a range of exclusive handmade designer furniture including tables, seating, shelving and doors for true Student’s developments in Newcastle and Glasgow.
true Student provides quality student accommodation focused on the care and well-being of its guests. It employs staff based on site with training in student welfare to help make sure everyone is as happy and as well as possible. Accommodation is available in individual Club Suites or en suite rooms in shared apartments, with designer communal spaces which encourage relaxation and fun including cinemas, cafes, and, in the case of its new site in Glasgow, a giant slide and multi-sport all-weather pitch. true also provides regular social activities, well-being courses and assistance with everything from opening a bank account to which clubs are the best for a Friday night out. true chose Joshua Tree’s furniture for the quality of the product as well as its positive ethos and people-centred approach.
The Joshua Tree Project is a Community Interest Company (CIC) which employs people with learning difficulties, disabilities, those with mental health issues, and other people who have been marginalised by society. It was founded by Lee and Louise Bensley, the parents of Joshua, who was born with a rare chromosomal disorder which meant he had complex special needs.
Concerned about Josh’s job prospects when he reached adulthood, Lee and Louise founded The Joshua Tree Project so that Josh could work in a safe and comfortable environment, in a job that he loved, as he had always shown an interest in joinery. They created a fully working joinery, with the aim of also employing other local young adults with learning difficulties and disabilities, to make high end, bespoke furniture for sale.
All of the company’s furniture is made from recycled and reclaimed wood, which is kindly donated by the community or sourced from local companies. Customers have the opportunity to design their own furniture, choosing their wood and finish and adding personalised touches.
Kevin Hazell, managing director of The Joshua Tree Project said: “We’re very excited to have won this significant contract which is by far the largest that we’ve ever undertaken. The Joshua Tree Project is going from strength to strength, having grown our joinery from one unit to six and further plans for expansion on the horizon, as well as the prospect of exporting our furniture overseas in the near future.”
He added: “This contract is another step in an amazing journey of equality, high expectations, success and achievement. The Joshua Tree Project was founded on the belief that everyone has potential, and as long as we treat each individual with respect, they will succeed and play an active and full role in society. We are very thankful to our local community, who have embraced our vision and supported us from the very beginning.”
Marc Carter, managing director at true Student said: “We were aware of the great work being done by The Joshua Tree and loved their ethos as well as their products, so when we needed furniture for our existing student accommodation in Newcastle and our soon-to-open development in Glasgow, they were a natural choice for us.”