A training academy to help people facing challenges with their mental health, homelessness or overcoming addiction find jobs has been launched by a Bath charity with a vision to end social exclusion.
The 50 participants in the West of England Peer Academy, which will be run by Developing Health and Independence, will gain new skills and confidence to help them when applying for jobs.
They will also gain digital skills, go on work placements and get opportunities to become peer mentors and use their own experience to help others going through similar situations
The academy is funded by £80,000 from the West of England Combined Authority, which is led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris.
Officially launching the fully accredited training scheme, which will run to December, Mayor Norris said: “We need to harness the skills of everyone if our brilliant region is to prosper.
“I’m so pleased a £80,000 cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority I lead will give people a helping hand to find good jobs and live independent and fulfilling lives.
“The West of England Peer Academy will ensure people who just need a bit more support have the opportunities to build up their skills”.
Developing Health and Independence was launched in Bath in 1996 as an initiative to tackle the city’s drugs and homeless crises.
Its vision is to end social exclusion by ensuring that everyone has their basic needs met and is able to thrive by contributing to the richness and wellbeing of their community.
Pictured at the launch of the West of England Peer Academy are, from left: Jack Gill (course participant), Luke Lowes (course participant), Rosie Phillips (DHI CEO), Mayor Dan Norris, Ron Holdaway (course participant), Carolyn Rogers (DHI), Savannah Bassewitz (DHI) and Tor Purnell (course participant)
