A disability-led charity has appealed for greater financial backing to expand its training programme, which teaches practical skills to help disabled and marginalised people become self-reliant.

The Love Circle, a three-year-old organisation made up of both disabled and non-disabled members, has shifted its focus from short-term assistance to skills training, after recognising that many people were being left behind by traditional support systems.

The charity was born out of a need to reach those who often fall through the cracks, said Director Ralbert Ashton.

“There are people who don’t need major assistance, but they still don’t get the help they need. We realised we were seeing the same people coming back for food hampers and utility bills, and that meant we weren’t able to reach others who also needed support,” he explained.

That realisation prompted the organisation to rethink its approach — moving away from handouts and towards empowerment.

Training began in September 2024 at the Barbados Council for the Disabled, with 18 participants enrolled in the pilot programme.

Participants were taught practical skills, from making soap and candles to decorating with balloons and preparing fish cake batter, aimed at helping them become self-employed and self-reliant.

“Instead of just helping people survive, we wanted to help them help themselves,” Ashton said. “Once they’re able to earn, we can move on and assist someone else.”

Sustaining the programme has proved challenging, with funding remaining a major obstacle.

Support so far has come largely from faith-based organisations, including Seventh-day Adventist churches and Beach Church, as well as personal contributions from members of The Love Circle, Ashton said.

“Most of us don’t work. We’re on small pensions, but we still make the sacrifice to help others,” he said.

A recent fundraising concert was held to raise additional funds, but Ashton said limited publicity affected attendance and overall returns.

Despite the challenges, the organisation continues to push ahead with plans to expand its reach.

Ashton revealed that discussions are pending with the Small Business Association, which could help participants who want to take their skills further and formally establish small businesses.

“If they want to do it properly, manage a business the right way, we want that support in place for them,” he said.

The charity has already assisted several participants by providing the tools and equipment needed to get started.

There are also plans to approach the Labour Office for programme support.

“We want to present something they can see is beneficial, not just for persons with disabilities, but for society as a whole,” Ashton said.

With additional funding, The Love Circle hopes to roll out new programmes in the coming months, including upholstery and wine-making, alongside a second soap-making class by popular demand.

“The interest is there,” Ashton said. “What we need now is the support to keep going.”