A DESIGN and print social enterprise has been praised for its work in increasing work opportunities for people with mental health issues.

Double Click, based in Shotton, is a service which used to be run by Flintshire Council to provide employment and training opportunities.

However, for the last two years it has been operating as an independent company and has turned a small profit.

Its success comes despite its base being targetted during 2017 by criminals who broke in and caused damage to the building and computers.

Although it is independent, the local authority still provides funding of £110,000 towards the enterprise, which has recently been singled out for praise by Ken Skates, Welsh Govrnment Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport.

In a report Neil Ayling, Flintshire Council’s chief officer for social services, said: “The cabinet secretary recognised the great progress made by Double Click as social enterprise which he described as model for other sectors in the principality.

“As a result of moving to a social enterprise Double Click can now employ people with a range of skills.

“They have, for example, just employed a graphic designer/trainer who can share her skills with trainees and improve the products.

“As a social enterprise, Double Click are able to apply for grants to promote their businesses and fund developments.

“Flintshire County Council contributes £110,000 to Double Click. This amount has not increased over past two years, so is effectively a cost reduction, taking inflation and other factors into account.”

Mr Ayling said the social firm is also able to use the council’s expertise and generates income through the design and printing of leaflets, brochures, flyers and general business stationery, as well as website design.

It is currently supported by Flintshire councillor Paul Cunningham, who is on the board of directors, as well as two advisers from the authority and Social Firms Wales.

In total it has five staff members, 22 trainees and two volunteers. Members of the council’s social and healthcare scrutiny committee will be asked to continue supporting the company at a meeting on Thursday.