Project for homeless rebranded
South Wales Argus: 10 November 2006
(by Jane Helmich)
A PROJECT based in Newport will continue to direct its energies into helping homeless people get off the streets and into work but with a new name
Pilot Project, an arts and sports day centre in George Street, will now be known as Compass.
Members of the community, students of the project and local dignitaries – including Newport's first champion for homeless people Councillor Gail Giles – gathered to celebrate the rebranding.
A special open day was held to demonstrate the type of workshops the project offers. Guests were treated to live music performances, cookery and art demonstrations.
The innovative project, designed to develop talents of homeless people and provide them with the skills, confidence and training to build a career, is run by Solas (Cymru), a member of the Seren Group, which provides accommodation, training and support for single homeless people in the city.
It has helped more than 800 people since its official launch by Prince Charles and Prince William in 2002.
Once referred to the centre, students are supported by a mentor who works with them, planning their progress by identifying areas of interest and ways they can achieve monthly milestones.
Activities include music, art, cookery, photography, various sports and creative writing with specialist tutors providing lessons, coaching and workshops.
Manager Jim Wright explained: “The name Pilot Project suggested we were only trialling this scheme. Four years down the line however, this is not the case. We are an established organisation that is here to stay and our new name reflects our intentions for the future.”
He added the name Compass drew on the building's nautical theme having previously been a ship's Prior Office.
The project has recently been helped with over £90,000 funding from the Paul Hamlin Foundation, Esme Fairburn Foundation and Barclays Bank.
|
