An Inverness organisation which provides work for people with a range of disabilities is looking at ways of future-proofing itself. Highland BlindCraft, which was originally set up as a factory by the Royal National Institute of the Blind People, now sells bedframes, mattresses, headboards and more. The business now employs people with visual and hearing impairments as well as autism and anxiety.
It has operated for more than 140 years and now employs 20 supported individuals as part of its 34-strong staff team. After a restructure in the past 12 months, Deirdre Aitken has become the executive manager. She is now looking at how the Ardconnel Street organisation can be successful while continuing to support its staff.
Restructure has been a ‘steep learning curve’ Mrs Aitken, who was in charge of the services side of the business, found herself being asked to fill a new position when the Highland BlindCraft board looked at a restructure. Financial struggles brought on by the Covid pandemic and cost-of-living-crisis meant the charity was looking at ways to cut costs. Mrs Aitken said: “When the two arms of the business were brought together I was asked if I wanted to take on the managerial role on an interim.
“I hadn’t really thought about it. Heather McDonald, who was running the business side of things at the time, showed me what I needed to know before she left in January. “My role was made permanent in June and we’re definitely getting there now.
“It’s been .