Real Jam fundraiser smashes target to raise £11,796

7 October 2025

Minstead Trust has exceeded expectations with a fundraiser to fund the first steps in its urgent expansion plans for its inclusive jam and chutney social enterprise.  

Across two weeks in September the charity’s supporters raised an incredible £11,796 towards new equipment for Real Jam & Chutney Company. This will eventually enable this pioneering business to host more supported cooks to build their skills, as well as reducing its waiting list of stockists by producing more jars.  

Real Jam & Chutney Company is based in the New Forest and produces over 20 different chutneys and jams, selling 10,000s of jars every year. The company is a social enterprise where people with learning disabilities make the preserves, fills the jars and add the labels. 

The campaign had set out to raise the first £10,000 needed for the next stage of expansion. Thanks to the generosity of local supporters, that target was beaten, ensuring the Trust can now take the next steps in growing this successful social enterprise. 

Sebastien Vigneron, Real Jam & Chutney Company Manager, said: ‘We’ve been blown away by the response to this appeal. Thanks to this amazing support, we can start to expand Real Jam & Chutney and give more people with learning disabilities the opportunity to learn new skills and experience a work environment.’ 

Real Jam & Chutney is one of Minstead Trust’s five social enterprises, which include Furzey Gardens in Minstead and Hanger Farm in Totton. Each provides real work experience and training in safe, supportive environments, helping people to build confidence and skills that lead towards paid employment. 

Find out more about Real Jam & Chutney Company at www.realjam.co.uk