Social Enterprise to transform life opportunities for homeless 

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.

It is estimated that a pilot programme to support 50 residents could see 38 individuals find employment, prevent 23 residents from becoming homeless, and help 15 residents move out of temporary accommodation. The pilot programme was approved at a meeting of Rugby Borough Council held last night (20 July).

Case studies from other local authority areas that have established similar Social Enterprises have seen residents train and gain employment as a carpenter, teaching assistant, digital marketer, nursey assistant and plasterer.

Rugby Borough Council has identified BEAM as a partner to establish the Social Enterprise, which could be up and running within 3 months.

Michelle Dickson, Rugby Borough Council Chief Officer for Communities and Homes, said: “This project us 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.”

While each resident will be supported with a package tailored to them, this can typically include appropriate 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 also offers the opportunity to free up more council accommodation by reducing the need to use council housing for temporary accommodation.