Our Story
Chopsticks (North Yorkshire) Limited was a powerful idea that originated from a group of adults with learning disabilities. We will create jobs for people like us and give ourselves the chance to develop real-world skills through meaningful work.
What began in 1995 as a simple kindling workshop in a shed has grown into a thriving charitable organisation, empowering individuals and creating lasting impact across North Yorkshire. Here's how our journey unfolded…
1995 - Before We Were Chopsticks
The organisation that would become Chopsticks started at Ashlands Training Centre in Northallerton in 1995, where one of our founding committee members had worked. At the time, there was growing need and increased societal awareness around opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, particularly in relation to skills development and employment.
A small group formed and later moved to the Mencap Centre in Northallerton. It was here that Graham Cook — who would go on to become our first Manager — set up a shed to cut, package and sell kindling to the public. A bank account was opened at Yorkshire Bank to receive proceeds from kindling sales, which allowed work team members to earn a small daily payment. Although this early group didn’t yet have a name, the foundations of Chopsticks were laid.
Chopsticks Is Born
On 19 August 1995, the group moved to Archer’s Yard in Northallerton, and the organisation officially became an Industrial and Provident Society — Chopsticks. Graham Cook and Nancy Wheatley worked alongside key local figures to secure a dedicated space for woodworking and a growing team.
1995
A Committee and a Chair
On 12 August 2000, a management committee was formed and John Coulson, a local businessman and town councillor, became our first Chairman. His vision was to expand the wood fuels operation and create outreach opportunities to benefit the wider community.
2000
A New Home for a Growing Team
By 2007, it was clear that the shed at Archer’s Yard could no longer meet demand. The team had outgrown the workshop and needed more space — not only for production, but for offices and future expansion.
A suitable site was found on Thurston Road, Northallerton. Planning permission was granted and a business case was put forward. With support from venture capital, loans, local authority grants and fundraising, construction began in late 2006 and was completed by autumn 2007.
2007
Official Opening and Equipment Expansion
On 11 January 2008, the new building was officially opened by our patrons, The Rt Hon. William Hague MP and Baroness Masham of Ilton. This marked a new chapter but there was still work to be done.
2008
Chopsticks needed to scale up. A reliable timber supply was secured and additional funding obtained for new tools, saws and benches. On 8 February 2008, the arrival of a donated industrial crosscutting saw and also equipment from the local BT depot, enabled us to dramatically increase production capacity. New services were also introduced, including garden maintenance for local residents.
2008
2022 – Celebrating 25 Years of Chopsticks
On 19 September 2022, we celebrated our 25th anniversary. Chopsticks was stronger than ever, supporting a greater number of vulnerable people to gain confidence, develop new skills and work as part of a team in a real production environment.
Originally set up as an Industrial and Provident Society, due to changes in organisational structures, Chopsticks is now classed as a Registered Society, governed and regulated primarily by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Society Act 2014.