Our Moving Forward Project gives one to one support to people, mainly economically inactive people who are interested in setting goals for the future. Goals may involve getting into training or employability activities but they don’t have to. Moving Forward aims to respond to each person and the goals they set for themselves.
We have been delivering Moving Forward since January 2024, thanks to funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Small Grants Programme. Since then we have worked with 52 people. So far, 31 people have progressed on to training courses, 6 are making use of employability support, 12 are making use of other support and 3 have gone into work.
Moving Forward sometimes organises large group events to encourage mutual support between participants. Our most recent event on 18th October had several taster sessions and lots of information about local services and support. We encouraged people to have a go at something new and build their own and each other’s confidence. We were delighted that 30 people participated, many of whom were trying Moving Forward for the first time.
The event started with a shared lunch prepared by Riverside staff. Then, when little ones were settled in our creche, grown-ups got involved in; using Cricut to put digital designs onto coasters, henna design, sock pumpkin making, making kinder sweet treats and much more.
Feedback about the event was very positive, with comments such as “there should be more events like these where we can meet other people” and “its great to try these different activities here. I wouldn’t know where to start on my own”. We are already exploring further development opportunities we can offer people, by working together with organisations in our network.
If you would like to know more about Moving Forward, please contact Emma Spence on 0191 2260754 or email emma@riversidechp.org.uk .
This project is funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund through the North of Tyne Combined Authority and is now administered by the North East Combined Authority.