Our purpose

Grapevine’s purpose is to reduce the isolation and segregation experienced by people with learning disabilities and their families. We help them live life their way and to experience all the benefits that flow from richer and wider relationships: genuine safety, affection and growth.  

That means we value: 

A life that grows

Many people with a learning disability have lives that stand still. The pattern of their activities and relationships, often not chosen by them, remains narrow and unchanged over decades. A full life with happy, memorable moments and a variety of challenges is our goal. 

Connections that matter

People with a learning disability often lack a network of people who might provide aid and support at times of difficulty. The ice under their feet is thin. We support people to stand on the firm ground provided by relationships built up over a lifetime. Our goal is having real people around who aren’t paid to care, they just do.

Everyone’s contribution

At present people with a learning disability are defined by what they need, rather than by what they can offer. To make change possible we need to believe in each person’s capacity to contribute. Look beyond the "first glance" and you will see abilities and talents. Our goal is to help build two way relationships where each offers something of value to the other.

Learning on the journey

The twists and turns in life are what make us stronger. So does the chance to make mistakes, and the opportunity to learn from them. At present most people with a learning disability are protected from experiences for fear of the risks. But that’s life. Every challenge and experience will develop new understanding, both for us and for the people we serve.

Standing together

The relationship between Grapevine and the people we support should be a warm relationship of solidarity – not over protective, not based on ‘I know what is best for you’, not cold and task-centred with a focus on paperwork. It should be one of standing behind the person and looking through their eyes: ‘I need some support, not a "boss"’. ‘I need somebody to stand beside me, not in front of me.’ ‘I need to be asked not told.’

Passion

We encourage people to figure out what it is they love and then do it. Not only does it lead to happiness it fosters new connections as our enthusiasms touch others. As workers, our belief in what we do helps us do it better. 

History

Grapevine was set up in 1994 as a project of Coventry and Warwickshire Co-operative Development Agency. We separated from CDA and became a charity in our right in 2004 but kept the co-operative ethos. Grapevine is a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee. We have a Board of Trustees half of whose members have learning disabilities. They are responsible for the governance of Grapevine.