Mayor of Bournemouth Jackie Edwards cutting the tape with Sam Everard Picture: SAMEE

Ground-breaking hub for disabled entrepreneurs opens in Bournemouth

Tait ap EllisSeptember 19, 20250 Comment0

BOURNEMOUTH-based charity SAMEE has officially opened the doors to its new home, The SAMEE House, in Richmond Hill Gardens.

This purpose-designed space supporting disabled adults to launch their own businesses.

SAMEE (Support and Mentoring Enabling Entrepreneurship) is nationally and globally recognised for pioneering the UK’s first two-year supported self-employment internship programme, offering intensive mentoring and training to adults with complex needs, including learning difficulties, long-term health conditions, and neurodivergence.

The interns learn essential self-employment skills and gain relevant work experience ahead of them embarking on their journey into starting their own businesses.

Interns also complete the Steps Into Self Employment qualification—the UK’s first co-created Level 1 certificate in self-employment skills for disadvantaged young people.

Until now, SAMEE operated from hotel spaces. With the opening of The SAMEE House, the charity now offers a permanent, inclusive environment tailored to its interns’ needs.

Tyler Burt, a senior intern and Samee Ambassador gave Labour MP Tom Hayes a tour Picture: SAMEE

The Samee House, which was named by the interns because it makes them feel so at home and comfortable, features training rooms, one-to-one meeting spaces, an airy mezzanine for group meetings and a specially designed sensory room for quiet time.

The sensory room features bean bags, fish tanks, muted lighting, cuddly toys, lava floor tiles and light-up rugs.

The House also has ‘Steve’s Place’ named after an inspirational mentor, Steve Harrison who passed away just a month ago. So dedicated to the work of SAMEE, Steve continued supporting interns even from his hospital bed.

Second-year intern Tyler Burt, 22, said: “The SAMEE House is so much better for us. It’s our own special space where we can learn and feel comfortable.”

The official opening was led by Bournemouth Mayor, councillor Jackie Edwards, with guests including Bournemouth East Labour MP Tom Hayes, representatives for Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale, David McArthur MBE from JobCentre Plus and SAMEE trustees.

MP Tom Hayes said: “This is such a unique space—combining learning with a supportive, community feel. Seeing the interns’ artwork, fashion items and marketing literature on display is a testament to their progress.”

Wayne Ingram, chief impact officer said: “According to government statistics, only 31% of people with a neurodivergent condition are in employment. SAMEE is tackling a real and urgent need.”

One of SAMEE’s first success stories, Anton—who lives with ADHD and autism—launched a thriving gardening business just three months after joining the programme. He is now a SAMEE ambassador.

Founder and CEO Samantha Everard said: “It’s always been our dream to have a space where vulnerable young adults can grow in confidence and independence. The SAMEE House is already proving to be that special place.”