A NEW scheme aimed at transforming life opportunities for homeless people is being set up in Rugby.
A Social Enterprise is to be established in the borough, to offer opportunities to residents impacted by homelessness.
The enterprise will use crowd-funding from corporate and public investors to get homeless people, and those at risk of being homeless, into training and employment.
A pilot programme to support 50 residents was approved at a meeting of Rugby Borough Council on Tuesday (July 20).
It is estimated the pilot programme could help 38 people find employment, prevent 23 residents from becoming homeless, and help 15 residents move out of temporary accommodation.
Case studies from other local authority areas which have established similar Social Enterprises have helped residents train and get jobs as a carpenter, teaching assistant, digital marketer, nursing assistant and plasterer.
Rugby Borough Council has identified BEAM as a partner to establish the Social Enterprise, which could be up and running within three months.
Michelle Dickson, Rugby Borough Council’s Chief Officer for Communities and Homes, said: “This project is a unique and innovative way to support Rugby’s homeless and those at risk of homelessness into training and meaningful employment.
“This model won’t be suitable for all residents affected by homelessness, but for those that are this scheme will be motivating and rewarding, and has the potential to lead to a radical change in their life opportunities.
“BEAM has a proven record of supporting homeless residents in ways that suit them, and in attracting corporate and public investment to fund their costs.
“While it may take up to two years for residents to complete their pathway, I’m looking forward to seeing the difference this programme can make to the lives of our more vulnerable residents.”
Each resident will be supported with a package tailored to them, including training, finding a job, CV and interview training, finding alternative accommodation, childcare and travel costs, and support for the first 26 weeks in work.
The programme could also free up more council housing by reducing the need to use it for temporary accommodation.
