Three years ago, life was very different for Jake. He was living in a homeless hostel for people with drug and alcohol abuse issues, and he was depressed and socially isolated.
After joining the Shared Lives home and care scheme in 2019 via BCP Council, Jake’s carer Emma recognised the need to give Jake a meaningful occupation and feeling of belonging and referred him to CRUMBS, a specialist training for adults with mixed-abilities, so they can learn to live independently.
In addition to completing a training course in administration and digital skills, Jake wanted to be part of a group, learn how to develop relationships in a working environment and make new friends. During the Covid pandemic, CRUMBS recognised a need to develop a Digital Skills training programme and Jake was mentored by a member of the CRUMBS’ team to support him to learn administrative tasks and responsibilities and to complete training units.
During lockdown Jake was actively involved in all video conferencing training and wellbeing sessions with CRUMBS’ staff and other trainees. In addition to achieving an industry endorsed award in Administration and Digital skills including the use of Microsoft packages, Jake’s self-confidence has grown since joining CRUMBS and he has become a more outgoing person and a valued member of the CRUMBS’ team.
With the support and funding from Talbot Village Trust, the charity was able to achieve their goal in updating the IT network and to create an IT suite for staff and trainees to gain much needed Digital Skills.
