New scheme to help St Albans homeless into work

A project aiming to help St Albans’ homeless population find work has been given a boost after St Albans district council awarded funds from its Community Grants Fund.

The money will be used to pay for IT equipment, clothing and the essential kit that is needed for people on the street to get into work.

Oaklands College in St Albans will also be hosting employment training workshops which aim to improve participants’ job-seeking skills and provide a much-needed confidence boost.

Hightown Housing Association is the charitable housing association behind the project and contract manager, Oli Jackson, says Hightown are keen to provide homeless people with more then just a place to sleep.

He said: “We want to support the homeless with the necessary life skills to move on to independent living.

“Our project will support people with practical advice on applying for jobs and improving their employability as well as boosting their confidence.”

Up to 10 homeless people will initially attend the year-long sceme and it is hoped that up to 70 people will benefit from the project by the time the scheme comes to an end.

District councillor Beric Read said: “We are delighted to be backing this valuable project which has the potential to completely transform the lives of 70 people.

“It is important that we try to help the less fortunate in our community and give them the chance to improve their outlook.”