apprenticeships that they might otherwise not know about.

This work, say the Cheltenham teams, is as much a part of housing management as keeping the bricks and mortar in good repair. Purposeful teenagers and young adults strengthen their communities and are far less likely to be drawn into anti-social behaviour now or later in life.

“I have so much confidence in myself now. I really enjoy learning and earning my own money,” says Thrive graduate Ethan. “It’s what I always wanted. You have shown me respect and helped me believe I can do anything I set my mind to.”

Weekly job clubs for jobseekers of all ages are also run by CBH – not only for customers, but for anyone in the community who wants help with interview skills or to update their training. In the last year, these programmes have helped almost 100 people into work, 100 more into further training, and won CBH a place on the UK Housing Awards shortlist for outstanding resident employment and training work.

August 2023