About Little Gate

We support people with learning disabilities, autism or both across East Sussex and surrounding areas, to gain skills, confidence and independence through training and paid employment. 

Our mission, vision and values

Our mission is to support people with learning disabilities, autism or both into meaningful paid employment.

We believe that everyone has the right to work, to be valued and to live as independently as possible. Our vision is a more inclusive society where people of all abilities can thrive in the workplace and beyond.

Everything we do is guided by our core values:

Ambitious – We believe in people’s potential and support individuals to achieve more than they thought possible.

Respectful – We value every individual, treating everyone with dignity, honesty and understanding.

Compassionate – We listen, care and provide support in a way that is kind, patient and person-centred.

Our Story

Little Gate Supported Employment is a registered charity that transforms the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism or both by supporting them to reach their full potential through work.

The charity was founded in 2013 by Claire and David Cordell, who were driven by personal experience. As parents of a daughter with a learning disability, they saw first-hand the stark contrast in opportunities available to her compared to her twin brother. Recognising the urgent need for better employment pathways, they established Little Gate to help bridge this gap.

Over the past 13 years, Little Gate has grown significantly, expanding its services to include Supported Work Training, Supported Apprenticeships and Supported Employment. These programmes provide tailored support, helping individuals gain skills, build confidence and move into meaningful paid work.

In September 2024, Little Gate further extended its impact with the launch of Little Gate College. This specialist education provision supports young people aged 16–24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), offering two tailored study programmes: Future Ready and Aspire.

Today, Little Gate continues to work alongside individuals, families and employers across East Sussex, creating inclusive opportunities and changing lives through employment.

What we do and the impact we make

We deliver a range of supported employment programmes designed to help people at every stage of their journey into work.

From structured learning at Little Gate College, to hands-on training at Little Gate Farm and progression into Supported Apprenticeships and paid employment, our pathway supports individuals to build skills, confidence and independence.

Our work creates lasting impact – helping people secure meaningful employment, develop life skills and become active members of their communities. We also support employers to build inclusive workplaces, creating positive outcomes for both individuals and businesses.

Our Team and Trustees

Our dedicated team and trustees bring a wealth of experience, passion and commitment to Little Gate. Together, they ensure we deliver high-quality support and continue to grow our impact.

We are united by a shared belief in inclusion and the potential of every individual we support.

Be part of our story

We’re here to support people with learning disabilities, autism, or both across East Sussex and the surrounding areas to build skills, confidence, and meaningful, paid employment that works for them.