ReBuild Project helping the disadvantaged or socially excluded

Date published: 21/11/2006

Paul Rowen MP attended the Open Day of the exciting new ReBuild Project, which he described as, "a pioneering service for the Borough of Rochdale". The ReBuild Project works with individuals to identify barriers to their goals and to find ways of overcoming these and move on positively with their lives.

The ReBuild Project engages with people disadvantaged or socially excluded, offering a wide spectrum of activities designed to help break down these barriers, and some practical training which will lead to jobs or more qualifications. "Hard to reach’ individuals facing multiple barriers will use Life Coaching, and other mentoring skills, to work from present to future – to transform their self belief and expectation cycle.
 
The first group of participants started an Induction Course 4 weeks ago, and have shown a remarkable commitment to the project. Iain Wight, Project Director, stated that in these few weeks there has been a real change in the current participants on the programme, proving the value of the project.

One participant commented that he is now able to see the future in a way he didn’t think possible and is keen to follow a more positive path.   Other comments from the group stated that it is great to have something constructive and positive to do with an otherwise empty day.

At present, the Learning and Skills Council, together with Jericho Community Projects in Birmingham (a Christian charity with similar projects), have funded the current  pilot scheme, which will prepare around ten of this client group to be either college-ready, or ready for work.

Helen Munro, Project Manager said: "We are hoping that this pilot scheme will encourage agencies to buy into the service to enable funding to continue past July 2007. A difference is being made in people’s lives which we believe is meeting a real need in Rochdale. We want to provide this service to many more men and women who have found themselves marginalized in our society, and who we believe should have the opportunity to make a fresh start."