Yellow Submarine, an Oxfordshire-based charity, has officially opened its brand-new Life-Changing Bakery in Witney — a dedicated space designed to provide vital work experience and life skills for adults with learning disabilities and autism.
The launch was marked by a special visit from acclaimed television presenter and Bake Off judge, Prue Leith, who cut the ribbon and praised the charity’s remarkable growth and impact.
“This makes me quite emotional,” said Prue. “I’ve had a long life in the catering trade and have run a couple of similar charities, and it’s not easy. To do it successfully and to grow continuously as you have over the years is just unbelievably moving. I think it’s astonishing and wonderful, and I can’t see you ever stopping!”
The new bakery represents a significant milestone for Yellow Submarine, which already operates two popular community cafés in Oxford and Witney, both run by trainees alongside tutors.
Expanding into a dedicated production space will allow the charity to fulfil more orders, support additional trainees, and grow the reach of its unique Life-Changing Bakes range. These products are sold online and in selected local outlets — with two recently awarded Great Taste Awards 2025, a remarkable achievement for a small charity.
Read more: Oxfordshire-based charity Yellow Submarine opens Life-Changing Bakery
The launch evening also highlighted the confidence and achievements of Yellow Submarine’s trainees. Julia, one of the charity’s participants, delivered a heartfelt speech.
“Her transformation has been incredible,” said Traineeship Manager Becs. “We could not have imagined her doing this a year ago. She has grown so much in confidence, and we’re so proud of her.”
Enterprise Manager Sophie Bradley added: “We are so delighted to have finally reached this stage. Opening our new bakery really is a dream come true. The project has been running since 2019 and has already enabled us to teach new skills to so many of our trainees, as well as increase our customer base.
“The support for the new bakery has been overwhelming, and we’re so grateful and excited to have Prue joining us to officially cut the ribbon.”
