Arrow
Arrow project: from homelessness to employment
Homeless adults who want to find paid work have to overcome a multitude of barriers, from low levels of work experience, convictions and substance misuse problems, to employer discrimination. The ARROW project, run by Connection at St Martins (CSTM), provides specialist support and training that can give them the confidence, skills and connections to take a first step into employment.
City Lit plays the key role of providing English language training to the many participants who are refugees or new arrivals who are at risk of homelessness or sleeping rough. Learners can take a single module in speaking and listening or can complete a recognised qualification in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL), from entry 1 to level 1.
The teaching is tailored to the needs of each learner and, where possible, to support them in the search for employment. One recent participant successfully used his classes to prepare for his busking licence interview, and is now able to earn a living through his music.
The ARROW project is funded by the London Development Agency and will run until 2010.