Jane Kippax and Jane Chong, co-founders of Step and Stone, a bakery business in Bristol, support children and adults with learning disabilities by helping them develop employment skills, build confidence and establish social connections. Inspired by their experiences as mothers of children with Down’s syndrome, they established the initiative to address the low employment rate among people with learning disabilities, which they believe is unfairly limiting their opportunities. The organisation also helps employers understand how to support disabled employees successfully. One participant, for example, now works two shifts a week at an American diner, where her contribution has boosted morale and productivity. After being nominated for the BBC Make a Difference Awards last year, Kippax said the recognition meant a great deal to both founders, making them feel appreciated for their efforts to create more inclusive employment opportunities and positive change in their community.