A second Sharan Project employability programme, part-funded by Futures for Women, took place in Birmingham in December 2019.   Seven disadvantaged women, who had been subject to domestic abuse or persecution, successfully completed a four-week skills-based course which helped them overcome barriers and challenges they may be facing in securing employment.   Partner organisation Go-Train delivered the skills training and Smart Works gave assistance with interview preparation and provided a capsule working wardrobe for women who had secured their first role.  And in addition to becoming more prepared for employment the women met a new network of friends who could offer them on-going support.

Futures for Women Secretary, Jane Hampson, attended the course celebration event and helped to present certificates to the women who had successfully graduated.  A representative from the Muslim Women’s Network (MWNUK) also attended the celebration event and offered an opportunity for the women to volunteer with the charity to gain work experience. In addition they were invited to apply for a paid administrative role currently being advertised. 

Futures for Women will be part-funding two further employability programmes in 2020. 

 

We were delighted to hear that former FfW beneficiary Zoe Hooton, who is now working as an architect director, has been appointed as a professional studies adviser for students completing their chartership (Part 3). She is also part of a charity which teaches teenagers about architecture.

Zoe has also contributed to the Royal Institute of British Architecture Book ‘Defining Contemporary Professionalism’ co edited by the RIBA President Alan Jones.

We would like to offer our congratulations to Zoe on these fantastic achievements!