AFTER becoming homeless, a job shop customer was helped to find a home and permanent job.
Rola returned to Coventry without a home after looking after her sick mother and was living on friends’ sofas until Job Coach, Colleen, helped her.
The West Midlands Combined Authority Rough Sleeping scheme helps people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, find suitable accommodation and help them to apply for work and any training they may need.
The project started in December 2022 and since then over 80 people have been given individualised support with an action plan including full access to Job Shop facilities, with around 20 finding sustainable employment.
Councillor Naeem Akhtar, cabinet member for housing and communities, said: “At a time of major challenges in the housing and rental market, The WMCA Rough Sleeping Initiative has been invaluable in assisting people like Rola in crisis situations.
“It has not only helped put them in touch with the right agencies to find suitable places to live, but has given them confidence and options to escape the poverty trap.”
Rola now has a permanent job, her own tenancy and has even managed to buy a car, after being supported by the scheme over the last few months.
Coun Dr Kindy Sandhu, cabinet member for education and skills, added: “Rola’s story is just one positive example of the tremendous support our Job Coaches, and in this case in particular, the WMCA Rough Sleeping Initiative, regularly provides for our residents.
“Anyone who lives or works in Coventry can pop into the Job Shop in West Orchards and can get help to apply for jobs, advice on training and help with CVs and interview techniques.”
