Teenagers who are being supported out of homelessness are set to be given top tips on how to start their own business.
The scheme has been launched by Independent Futures – part of Devon & Cornwall Housing group – in line with its commitment to provide homeless young people with temporary accommodation and the support to get their lives back on track and, ultimately, the skills to help them live independently.
Several former homeless young people now living at Independent Futures projects for young people at Torbay Foyer and Galway House will receive expert advice in areas such as developing business ideas, marketing, financial planning and writing a business plan in what’s believed to be the first-ever course of its kind in the area.
They will also get the lowdown on how to improve their decision-making and build confidence to help them make it in business.
Amy Barney, Independent Futures Team Manager for Young Peoples Services in Torbay and Teignbridge, said: “Access to settled accommodation and employment are two key factors in supporting vulnerable young people in achieving independence.
“This scheme will give our young people the underlying skills to help them succeed in business and the confidence to start a new venture and gain an income.
“We have some really talented young people who we could help to fast-track from the streets into successful self employment.
“For those who don’t want to start up a business, the workshops will provide additional skills that will make them more employable.”
The course is being delivered by Outset Torbay, which supports under-represented enterprise groups to start their own businesses, and will provide advice for young people in a series of tailored workshops over the coming weeks.
Helen Harman, Programme Director for Outset Torbay, said: “We’re working with people right across the Bay who face some of the biggest barriers into employment. We’re delighted to provide this free, flexible business start-up support, funded by European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Torbay Development Agency, to enable local youngsters to realise their potential.”
Torbay Foyer has provided temporary accommodation and support to 233 homeless young people since it opened in 2004.