Lancashire

Food-based enterprises

Our community cafés serve more than just great food. They are vibrant social enterprises open to everyone.

These inclusive spaces allow adults with learning disabilities and autism to gain real work experience. For many, this is a vital pathway to work, helping them build the skills they need for future employment.

By visiting us, customers can enjoy fresh, local food while helping individuals build confidence in a professional hospitality setting.

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Developing skills for the future

Across both locations, the team focuses on developing valuable real-word skills. Each role is tailored to individual abilities, allowing people to learn at their own pace.

Key areas of development include:

Food preparation: Making homemade soups, pies, cakes, and daily specials from scratch
Barista training: Learning to use professional machines to serve fresh coffee
Customer service: Taking orders, managing tables, and interacting with the public
Health and safety: Achieving practical qualifications in food hygiene

Roccoco Café, Leyland

Located in the heart of Leyland town centre, Roccoco is a modern café and coffee lounge. It is a bustling environment where people gain experience in food production and customer service.

The team here takes great pride in their baking. Roccoco is known for its range of homemade pastries and cakes, all prepared on-site by the people supported by Best Lives.

Marina Café, Adlington

Situated at the scenic White Bear Marina in Adlington, Marina Café offers stunning canal views. It provides a unique opportunity for people to work in a busy, scenic location.

With a friendly customer base of locals, boaters, and walkers, this café focuses on hearty meals and daily specials. It offers a relaxed environment where the team can build confidence while managing front-of-house duties in a beautiful setting.

Man at food based enterprise prepping food

South Ribble Council

“The team at Best Lives are fantastic to work with. They support us on a wide range of events providing individual packed lunches as well as cold and hot food buffets. The food is enjoyed by all ages, and no ask is too much for the team. The team are always the first provider which we ask. Thank you for your continued support.”

Matt Lloyd, Active Health Manager

Cardinal Newman College

“A huge thank you to the team at Best Lives for their incredible support in providing our learners with valuable hands-on experience at Roccoco Café and the wonderful facilities at Lisieux Hall. The welcoming and inclusive environment has helped our students build confidence, develop key life and work skills, and gain a real sense of independence. It’s been fantastic to see them thrive in such a supportive setting, and we truly appreciate the dedication of the staff in making this experience so meaningful.”

Steph McCartney, HLTA/Transition Lead

White Bear Waterside & Marina

“The Best Lives team at the Marina Café are great, they serve excellent food with a fantastic atmosphere. The staff are supportive in every way possible! I highly recommend.”

Emmalene Foster, Marina Manager