Weavers Company funding has been used to fund our bike mechanic training programme for 10 ex-offenders aged between 18-30, with another two in the pipeline. This included the technical training, equipment, parts and materials as needed, trainee expenses where needed to ensure access (eg travel), and the wider support programme that includes pastoral care, work readiness, and employment support.
The project has been successful, with objectives met for the people involved. Through the funding they have been able to train ex-offenders throughout the year to become qualified bike mechanics – but more importantly as they have learnt – given them the support, space, and community to rebuild confidence and self-esteem, change their own narrative for the path ahead, and begin to feel positive about their futures.
