THE BLOOM PROJECT LAUNCHED WITH MANX LOTTERY TRUST SUPPORT

A project to assist young adults with a disability to live more independently and find employment has been launched, supported by a grant from Manx Lottery Trust.

The Bloom Project, a pilot scheme run by The Children’s Centre, has been developed to help young adults with additional needs find work experience and prepare them for employment.  

The scheme is open to young people who have previously been involved with The Children’s Centre Inclusion Project, and aims through group work to help build confidence and reduce the risk of becoming socially isolated.

The project will offer the chance to learn and develop skills through farming, horticultural work and activities at The Children’s Centre’s Community Farm.

Fiona Dawson, Chief Executive of The Children’s Centre, said: ‘When working together the group will share formative experiences to build a sense of self and take part in sociable sessions focusing on reflection, discussion and friendship, all of which are great stepping stones to help find employment.

‘We must say a huge thank you to Manx Lottery Trust for its support for this project. The grant will allow us to roll out the scheme while continually reviewing and adapting it to ensure a positive experience to improve the potential of everyone involved.’

Community Farm Team Leader, Lee Brooks, added: ‘The Community Farm is a great environment to learn skills, get stuck in and see the value of their achievements. The young adults on this project have come so far already and there’s a world of new opportunities waiting for them.’

Lulu Gillow, Chair of the Manx Lottery Trust, said: ‘Manx Lottery Trust supports projects which will benefit the community not just in the present but in the future too. When we were asked to assist The Children’s Centre with The Bloom Project we were pleased to provide an opportunity for the young adults involved in the scheme to gain valuable life skills and build their confidence.’