What's Happening?
The Dorset Burger Company, a restaurant in Weymouth, is planning to reopen as a training center for young people with special educational needs (SEN) after being devastated by a fire a year ago. Owners Emma Cogan and Ross Kay aim to transform the site
into a community interest company that will offer training and operate a community café. The fire, which occurred in January 2025, required more than 60 firefighters to control and led to the evacuation of 25 people. The owners, who have backgrounds in working with SEN children and career advising, plan to combine their expertise to create a Post-16 Training Centre focused on hospitality and retail. The new facility will include a kitchen, workshop, and classroom space, providing students with practical work experience.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it addresses the need for inclusive education and employment opportunities for young people with SEN. By providing a real work environment, the center aims to equip students with essential skills in hospitality and retail, potentially improving their employability. The project also reflects a broader trend of businesses pivoting towards social entrepreneurship, where profits are reinvested into community benefits. The reopening of the café, Sea-Saw, will not only serve as a training ground but also support local charities, fostering community engagement and support.
What's Next?
The owners hope to open the new café and training center by September. As the building's interior work progresses, they plan to establish partnerships for work experience opportunities in Weymouth and nearby areas. The community interest company will focus on creating a sustainable model where profits from the café support the students' training and local charitable causes. The success of this initiative could inspire similar projects in other regions, promoting inclusive education and community development.
