Read about some of the grass-roots projects we supported in the UK, and how they have sustainably improved life for local communities.
Helping young people learn new skills in Stoke-on-Trent
We supported a project in Staffordshire, UK, called 25 Pairs of Hands that trained young people in communication and media skills. Our funding supported an oral history project led by the Prince’s Regeneration Trust at Middleport Pottery, a historic site in Stoke-on-Trent. A group of six young people aged 14 to 16 interviewed past employees about their memories of working at the pottery, which has been producing earthenware since 1851. As well as learning new skills, the opportunity boosted their confidence and increased employment opportunities. We also funded a six-month placement for a young person to work in the pottery’s visitor centre and learn administrative and customer service skills.
Supporting people who are facing homelessness in Essex
The Halcrow Foundation funded a range of support services run by Streets2Homes. This Essex-based homeless charity supports people living on the streets and those at risk of losing their homes by helping them access permanent accommodation and part-time refuge. It does this by assessing an individual’s needs and providing support in accessing social services and finding accommodation. It also gives training in basic skills to boost employment opportunities, job promotion schemes and ongoing counselling and support. Our funds helped house 22 people and made a lasting difference to many others who had no means to access accommodation.
Helping to reduce homelessness in Essex
We also supported a loan scheme run by homeless charity Streets2Homes. The loan is used as a guarantee for rented accommodation in the private housing sector, and people supported by the scheme are also be given access to training opportunities provided by the charity. This helps to secure accommodation for those wanting to leave the streets, but can’t afford the deposit that landlords require. Streets2Homes guarantees the initial deposit and supplies tenancy support, which makes landlords more willing to let their properties. Individuals can then repay the loans at a rate they can afford once they have a degree of stability in their lives, and they are given support to encourage this.
