The Restoration Workshop with Purpose

We are the furniture restoration co-operative in Chelmsford, Essex.

workshop

Our History

The Millrace Foundation can trace its origins to ‘The Millrace project’, which was set up in the early 1990s by a charity called “Interface” at Moulsham Mill, Chelmsford. It was created in the light of provisions in the National Health Service and Community Care Act 1990 requiring an increased number of people with long term mental health problems to have their needs met while living in the community rather than in institutions. In conjunction with the local Mental Health Community Rehabilitation team a small workshop was set up to provide skills-based activity to individuals in a sympathetic and therapeutic environment.
Due to its success, the Project became “Millrace Furniture Co-operative Ltd”, becoming incorporated as a company, limited by guarantee in March 1995 with a grant from the European Social Fund. It was designed to operate as a workers’ co-operative, which would allow service-users to become “members” and take part in the running of the business. It was granted City & Guilds approval to become a teaching centre and has continued to offer accredited courses to people with mental health problems ever since. Many referred individuals who have participated in the project, having become members of the Co-operative and in learning new skills, gaining a qualification and participating in the running of the business, have experienced improved self-confidence, and mental health, with some progressing into further education or employment. Over the past 30 years hundreds of people have been through the doors of Millrace, either having a place on the training scheme or been involved in running the project or as customers of the Co-operative. Training for the City & Guilds qualification, as well as non-accredited courses/workshops are also made available to paying members of the public, from the local community looking to learn new skills.

Parking is free, and there is a bus stop on the main road, approximately one minute away, served by frequent buses.

MillRace furniture has been established as a business since 1995 and is also an approved City and Guilds Training center. Our aim is to provide a wide range of professional services at competitive rates.

30 Years of Restoration

On our 10th anniversary in 2005, the following article (by Anne Fitzgerald) appeared in the Essex Chronicle on 24th November:

MillRace Furniture Restoration Co-operative’s workshop is a hive of activity.

Skills including French polishing an upholstery, along with chair caning and rush seating are put to good use to restore antique and modern furniture for customers. Picture framing is also undertaken, and a range of restored furniture is on sale.

The co-operative, at Moulsham Mill in Parkway, Chelmsford, originally formed as a social enterprise for people recovering from long-term mental health problems, is now celebrating its 10th year as a small independent business and social firm.

"A Real Difference"

Paul Richmond, secretary at MillRace Furniture, said: “The co-operative had its beginnings in a small workshop founded to provide a supportive environment for socially excluded and disadvantaged people recovering from mental health problems or with disabilities.”

“These people take part in training and gain experience working alongside experienced furniture restorers. Much of the time they are directly involved in the services the co-operative offers.”

“All of them find that the experience has a positive effect on their problems. The co-operative makes a real difference to the individuals involved and more broadly makes a contribution that benefits the community.”

Several years ago, the organization became an accredited City and Guilds training center offering nationally recognized qualifications in many subjects, including cabinet making, French polishing, and chair caning.

The training aspect has been expanded, offering around 20 places a week. Evening classes are also held for members of the public.

“The co-operative and its members always welcome visitors who want to know more about the services we provide and the social aim that is integral to our work,” said Paul.

“In our 10-year history, we have received invaluable assistance from other organizations and individuals – these include Chelmsford Star Co-operative, Social Firms For Essex, Chelmsford Voluntary Service, Croft, and most recently Business Link.”

#restoration