Bristol charities announce partnership

12 May 2026 News

Julian Mines, CEO of Bristol Charities

Bristol Charities

A learning disability charity in Bristol has formed a partnership with a historic almshouse organisation in the city.

Providing Opportunities and Support (Props), which has provided employment support for adults with learning disabilities for over 25 years, will be joining the wider group of Bristol Charities, whose history dates back to 1292.

The organisations said the partnership will focus on strengthening Props’ training programmes and building relationships with local businesses to create real, lasting employment opportunities across the city.

Props will be able to access shared resources, expertise and strategic support as part of the partnership, while continuing to operate as an independent charity.

Julian Mines, chief executive of Bristol Charities, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Props into the Bristol Charities group.

“Props has a strong track record of empowering people and promoting inclusion, values that are central to our mission.

“What makes Props distinctive is its hands-on, real-world approach: from the Vassall Centre Café to its structured training and employment programmes, it creates genuine pathways into work.

“By working more closely together, we can expand that impact, supporting more adults with learning disabilities to develop skills, gain confidence and access meaningful employment.”

Becky King, director at Props, said: “Joining the Bristol Charities group marks an exciting new chapter for Props.

“It strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality support while connecting us to a wider network committed to social impact.

“Together, we can create more opportunities for people with learning disabilities to thrive.”

Props recorded an income of £1.21m and expenditure of £1.34m in 2024, when it employed 57 people.

Bristol Charities recorded an income of £2.89m and expenditure of £2.93m and employed 25 people in the year to March 2025.

For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here.

More on