A ‘LIFE-changing’ project which has helped thousands of disadvantaged people in Coventry and Warwickshire to build confidence and find work is facing closure – unless new funding is found over the winter.
The Accelerate project, managed by Coventry and Warwickshire Co-operative Development Agency (CDA), is a partnership of local organisations which provides co-ordinated support for people who are at a disadvantage when looking for work.
The project has been funded by the European Social Fund and the National Lottery Community Fund – but the funding will expire next March.
Coventry and Warwickshire CDA Operations Manager Mandy Bygrave said: “The implications could not be more serious for the project and the many people which it supports and helps towards life-transforming career pathways.
“Our funding runs out next March, so I would urge everyone to make the most of the project while it is still here.
“If we are to continue beyond next spring, we require further funding – as it stands, there is none in place.”
She added the funding from Europe will be replaced by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund – but there will be a one-year gap for funding to support employment support, which she described as ‘catastrophic for the voluntary sector’.
“I would ask please, anyone that can, help us find more funding so we can keep supporting people that really need it, if not at the level we currently deliver, at least at some level so that there remains somewhere for these people to turn to.
“Anyone who comes forward to help enable the project to continue will be making a contribution almost beyond measure to the communities of Coventry and Warwickshire.”
Since its creation in 2016, it has helped over 2,000 people to find employment – including people with disabilities, people from ethnic minorities, and over-50s who are ineligible for similar support.
Mandy added: “We love it when clients enter employment and we are very proud of every one that achieves that, but success is measured in many ways other than getting a job. It could be learning a new language or just walking out of the front door for the first time in ages.
“Whatever the challenges that face an individual and whatever journey they are on, we are there with lots of support, whether that is mental health or wellbeing support, building confidence or through cooking, craft or online courses. It is a life-changing programme for those furthest from the job market.
“Accelerate can adapt to help anybody. It is inspirational for staff, partners and participants.”
Deputy Mayor of Coventry, Coun Jaswant Singh Birdi said: “Even in the dark days of the pandemic, Accelerate was there to help people in most need, to build their confidence and give them the tools to become a valuable part of the community.
“We need to find a way to ensure their wonderful work continues in the years ahead.”
Visit https://www.accelerate.org.uk for more information about Accelerate.
Visit http://www.cwcda.co.uk/home for more information about Coventry and Warwickshire CDA.
