Founded in 1839 as part of the Royal School for the Blind, Shelforce’ s mission was clear from the beginning: to provide training and employment for visually impaired individuals. The company initially focused on creating simple, everyday items such as brushes, baskets, and mats. These early efforts helped individuals with disabilities gain financial independence, valuable skills, and a sense of purpose— elements that have remained at the heart of Shelforce ever since.

Over the decades, Shelforce expanded its product portfolio to include bed manufacturing, engraving, woodworking, and the production of gates and fences. By the 1990s, the company had evolved into a leader in the PVCu window and door manufacturing sector. However, it was in the early 2000s, when Shelforce faced

significant challenges, that its commitment to innovation and inclusivity proved pivotal.

When I joined, the company needed a vast shake up. We were forced to streamline operations and reduce staff numbers to slowly rebuild the company. This restructuring helped Shelforce adapt to changing market conditions while staying true to our core values of providing meaningful

work for individuals with disabilities.

The company’ s emphasis on employee wellbeing and development has been a cornerstone of its success. Shelforce recognises that creating an inclusive workplace doesn’ t just benefit employees with disabilities— it strengthens the entire organisation. People with various challenges, including deafness and learning difficulties, are

given the opportunity to grow, contribute, and succeed.

The company’ s diverse workforce thrives on innovation, with employees bringing unique perspectives to every product and process. Shelforce has fostered a culture where every individual is valued, ensuring that employees are not just filling jobs, but building careers.

In 2023, Shelforce’ s dedication to inclusivity was formally recognised when the company received the prestigious King’ s Award for its outstanding contributions to both the community and the economy. This recognition highlights Shelforce as a benchmark for inclusivity in the workplace, demonstrating that a diverse and supportive workforce can drive both social impact and business success.

Shelforce’ s success also underscores a vital point: innovation is not limited to products alone. It is embedded in every aspect of the business— product development, employee engagement, and company culture.

The company’ s ability to adapt and thrive in a changing market is a direct result of its focus on creating opportunities for all employees, regardless of their abilities. In doing so, Shelforce has proven that inclusivity is not just a moral choice, but a smart business strategy that leads to long-term success.

www. shelforce. com

76 APRIL 2025

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