Our Residents have been Boosting their Potential
After the positive outcomes of ‘Boost Your Potential’, a career coaching programme offered to residents at the beginning of the year, we were enthusiastic about beginning a second course. Our first programme resulted in a successful job application being submitted by a resident who took part in Boost Your Potential course and has since joined our Community Engagement Team. They are currently carrying out their apprenticeship with us. 
In November, we collaborated with 'Adviza' again to provide a free, short course aimed at providing residents with a comprehensive understanding of job applications and interviews in the field of business administration. This initiative was designed for individuals seeking to return to work after a childcare break, those contemplating a career change, or those who have been unemployed for an extended period, to facilitate their retraining and upskilling to apply for jobs. The opportunity was extended to any residents aged 19 and above.
Throughout the course, participants gained insights into the significance of organisation and ‘people skills’ and why employers value them. They also built their confidence whilst exploring their strengths, understood the responsibilities associated with a Business Admin role, and engaged in activities tailored to administrative duties at Fairhive. The Community Engagement Team at Fairhive provided support during the session, delivering a presentation to offer insights into working in the Housing sector.
This project was a success due to its rounded approach not only in the content of the course and cooperative working but also in making it work for the participants and taking into account their needs by addressing potential barriers to taking part. Through the establishment of trust with the participating tenants, the course led to referrals to other teams and partner organisations to access further services. Additionally, it provided an opportunity for our team to raise awareness about our grant funding available for residents through the Thriving Communities Fund.
There were several attendees interested in finding out more about our Involved Residents groups, attending further learning sessions, and one who has signed up to be part of the Policy Review Group.
Participants have reported that they feel more confident in applying for roles. One participant added, “I am looking forward to sending more emails using what I have learned”.
Following the course, attendees will be provided laptops from our team to help them pursue their learning and participation using digital devices and allow them to apply for jobs.
