Homelessness is a complex problem that requires an individualised and multifaceted approach to solve. For many, part of the problem is the inability to find or sustain long-term employment.

With funding from the Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA), Ferry Project have been able to offer internships to some of our clients that run alongside other employment and education services.

In the past four months, three internships have been successfully taken up. This enables individuals to receive six weeks of paid work experience that helps to enhance their CV, boost confidence and self-esteem as well as provide valuable work experience that many employers look for on job applications.

The first intern was someone who had been volunteering at our charity for many months. Upon completing his administrator internship with Ferry Project, he was able to secure an administration job on a part-time basis. The internship helped him grow in confidence and gave him an opportunity to show his skills and attributes as well as to learn new aptitudes.

The second intern is currently a Ferry Project resident who had been regularly engaging with the client cookery sessions at Ferry Project Cookery School. Whilst there, the cookery school tutor recognised his potential and passion for food. He was offered an internship in the cookery school as he had a desire to pursue a career in catering. There has been a noticeable change in him since he began the internship and some Job Centre staff have reported back to us that  ‘his face lights up when he talks about his internship’. Once his internship is complete, he will be supported in applying for jobs in the catering sector.

Our third intern is also a current Ferry Project resident who has always eagerly engaged with various aspects of the provision here at the hostel. His internship sees him supporting other Ferry Project staff with deliveries and collections. He is excited and invigorated by this opportunity and is proud to be a member of the Ferry Project staff team. It is hoped this period of work experience will help prepare him for full-time employment in the near future. He says: “this internship has helped put my life back on track. It gives me responsibility and something to do and I now have a goal to look forward to”.