The Crumbs Project was founded in 1997 by the late Anne Gardner MBE with the aim to help people with special life challenges have better life chances.Crumbs provides specialist training services for adults with learning disabilities, mental health issues and stabilised addictions. From our Bournemouth based training facility we deliver a variety of vocational training in hospitality, administration and housekeeping. We use a mix of practical skills training, mentoring, support and work experience to empower trainees to live a life of independence. Through our work we prepare trainees for the world of work, helping them develop personally and professionally.The idea of Crumbs was born when Anne's daughter Liz was diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 17, a disease which would continue to torment her throughout her adult life. At the time, despite Anne's best efforts there was little support for people suffering with mental illness and it was considered doubtful that Liz would ever live independently.Anne's experience identified a need for individuals in long-stay care to have a purpose, learn news skills and have a positive focus. So the first Crumbs Cafe was born, welcoming a variety of individuals with mixed abilities to learn skills in baking and customer services. The project was a success- supporting many damaged people through their recovery and into a life of independence.Over time the Project has grown from its small beginnings to our professional training center in Hibberd Court. Today, Crumbs provides a variety of training programmes, including courses in Administration, Housekeeping, Catering and Hospitality. The Project goes further in helping trainees improve their employ-ability, supporting them into either paid or voluntary work placements.Crumbs offers a variety of Food Services to help the charity become self sufficient. Trainees perfect their skills by preparing and serving the food, whilst gaining valuable work experience.