Stylized illustration of a purple tree with heart-shaped leaves in front of a yellow sun, set on a green sawtooth-patterned landscape.

OUR MISSION:

To enhance the lives of people with learning disabilities; helping them find meaningful employment and supporting them and their families in any way we can.

Two men smiling indoors, one wearing a "The Beehive Café" apron, standing in a room with tables and chairs, and another person sitting in the background.

Our Story

In 2017, Sam Goedhuis, who as many of you know has Down Syndrome, started work at the Beehive Café in Northampton and the experience has been life changing. Not only his increased sense of belonging and happiness but also a monumental progression in his communication and socialisation. It was obvious to us that so many of his peers and others would benefit from a similar experience.


We therefore decided to set up The Goed Life to help people with learning disabilities train for meaningful employment, giving them a sense of purpose, direction and belonging in their local community.

There are 1.5 million people with learning disabilities in the UK and 94% are unemployed. We don’t think it needs to be this way. There are opportunities for both the employee and employer and our aim is to facilitate these relationships through training as well as developing relationships with key employers.

  • Two individuals wearing aprons and gloves working in a cafe or kitchen setting, preparing food. In front of them are covered plates with baked goods like granola bars and muffins. The background includes toasters, plates, and snack bags.

    Overstone Lake

    We have purchased a static caravan at Overstone Lakes, Northampton, to provide respite breaks. This supports our aim of helping clients live full, positive lives, while giving their carers time to rest and recharge.

    During respite breaks, clients develop independent living skills, take part in enjoyable activities, and benefit from time away from their usual routines.

  • Person in a yellow shirt and orange safety vest watering plants in a garden

    Hortihub

    We are proud to be supporting the Hortihub. A dedicated horticultural provision for young people with learning disabilities and associated physical difficulties. The Hortihub recognise the need to acquire a range of transferrable skills to promote wellbeing, increase confidence and give a sense of empowerment and belief in ability.

  • A group of men wearing life vests sitting in two canoes on a calm lake surrounded by trees, enjoying a sunny day. One man is making a peace sign, while others are relaxed, engaging in conversation.

    Cube Cooking College

    Located in Kingsthorpe the Cube Cooking College is an adult day care provision that offers a unique blend of life skills and cooking education. Their mission is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals can learn and grow while enjoying delicious food. Empowering students with disabilities through culinary education.  This is where learning, culinary and community come together!

  • Wall mural of a yellow teapot with "The Place to Bee" written on it, surrounded by bees and leaves.

    Place to Bee

    This epic space in the heart of Kingsthorpe is fully equipped for vocational training in retail, hospitality customer service and life skills. Swing by for a coffee anytime!