About Us
Café JJ opened in 2007 when two young men with learning disabilities left catering college and were unable to find suitable day time activity. With support from local organisations and their parents, they opened a small café in Clifton Community Centre in Darlington, serving soup and sandwiches once a week. It didn’t take long for word to spread, and soon more people with learning disabilities joined in, and more volunteers got involved.
In 2011, Café JJ was officially registered as a charity. Our mission is to help adults with learning disabilities in Darlington build their skills and confidence by running a community café. Our inclusive and friendly venue offers a weekly opportunity for customers to meet up and enjoy some ‘good service and good food.’ Today, the café is run by a team of thirteen adults with learning disabilities, known as ‘Team JJ.’ They learn the skills of catering, hospitality and customer service and can gain qualifications tailored to their abilities. We have even won awards, including the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and most recently, Darlington Borough Council’s Stronger Communities Special Award.
Café JJ is more than just a café —it’s a place where everyone feels welcome, and the team can show off their talents while giving something valuable back to the Darlington community.
Our mission is to provide education, training, and support to adults with learning disabilities, empowering them to develop the skills needed to successfully operate a community café.
Through hands-on experience in food preparation and customer service, we aim to foster confidence, independence, and a sense of achievement for our team while creating an inclusive space for the community to connect and enjoy.
Our Values
At our community café, we believe in creating a welcoming space where everyone belongs and everyone matters. We are more than a café — we are a supportive, inclusive family where adults with learning disabilities are empowered to grow in confidence, contribute, and thrive.
We are committed to upholding the following values:
Teamwork
Through teamwork, trust, mutual support and respect, we work together to make a positive difference and create strong relationships between staff, volunteers and our customers. We ensure that every voice is heard and considered.
Empowerment
We support individuals to build independence, fulfil their potential and develop skills through practical learning. We encourage them to overcome challenges, feel proud of themselves and celebrate their achievements.
Compassion
We lead with kindness, patience and respect and provide a nurturing environment where everyone feels supported and is given the guidance needed to thrive.
Learning and Growth
We believe in the power of hands-on learning as our team develop valuable catering and hospitality skills. Using practical training and real-world experience, we nurture each person’s unique abilities, support them to take risks and offer meaningful opportunities to develop skills and build confidence.
Community and Connection
We warmly welcome everyone and have created a place that is not just a café – we bring people together and friendships grow. We celebrate diversity and promote inclusion, offering a safe, accessible space for everyone.
Joy and Positivity
We embrace fun, laughter and friendship as part of meaningful work and shared positive experiences.