The programme, commissioned by Lambeth Council and delivered by The Clink Charity, supports young people who have experience of care or are known to the Youth Justice Service. Since joining the café 12 weeks ago, this group has achieved a combined 28 City & Guilds NVQ qualifications, as well as developing important life skills.
Graduates are moving on to further education, apprenticeships, and work opportunities. Some will also gain experience at Clink Events, the charity’s social enterprise, working at some of London’s most prestigious venues.
But beyond the qualifications, the café has become something more, a community.
“Just incredibly proud of our first cohort,” said Paul, the café’s Lead Chef and mentor, who worked closely with the group throughout the programme.
“The first few weeks were challenging as the group got to know each other,” added Paulo, another team member. “But as you’ve seen today, they’ve been very happy about being here and what we’ve done with them in the last couple of months.”
“The Clink Training Café is a place where anyone, regardless of their upbringing or start in life, can thrive,” said Simon from The Clink Charity. “It’s our job to support them with the tools they need to succeed, and we could not be prouder of what they have achieved.”
Support, belief and second chances
The Clink Charity has been delivering award-winning rehabilitation and training programmes for over a decade, typically within prison settings. This new Brixton-based model brings their expertise into the heart of the community, offering support before young people reach crisis point.
“I would say I found this programme very life-changing,” said Marvellous Adudu, one of the graduating participants. “It was a very sweet and lovely experience, and I would love to do it again. Thank you.”
His mum also shared heartfelt words: “I just want to thank the organisation for accepting my son, even as his late entry. I just want to say thank you because this did him a lot of good, and I’ve seen how much he has improved. He loves cooking. This is just his passion, and they brought the best in him.”
The initiative has been delivered in partnership with Lambeth Made, the Department for Work and Pensions, and Youth Offending Services, who have each played a vital role in reaching and supporting the participants.
Cllr Marcia Cameron, Cabinet Member for Economic Inclusion, said:
“We believe in the talent and potential of every young person in Lambeth. This programme shows what’s possible when you offer care, structure, and opportunity. These young people have achieved something incredible—and we’re committed to continuing this work so that even more young people get the chance to shine.”
What’s next?
Graduates will continue to receive support from Lambeth Made services and the Clink team to help them build on the progress they’ve made.
And the journey doesn’t stop here, The Clink Charity will be delivering the programme again, welcoming a second cohort of Lambeth young people who will begin their path into hospitality, personal growth and future employment.
The programme reflects Lambeth’s commitment to ambitious, inclusive growth, where everyone, no matter their background, has the opportunity to succeed.
