European Social Fund in England

Case studies: Blueprint

The Blueprint project receives ESF funding from Jobcentre Plus in North Yorkshire. Beaumont Street Studios designed the project and leads a partnership of organisations that have proven track records in helping people with mental or physical disabilities, and providing careers advice, skills training or job coaching. Blueprint aims to move people who are on incapacity benefits into long-term employment.

Blueprint's approach is centred around its clients and involves a range of methods which makes sure that each client receives support in the most appropriate way. These methods include one-to-one coaching and mentoring, group training sessions, occupational training, and developing clients' confidence. Blueprint also offers a wide range of employment opportunities, including jobs in retail, administration, creative writing, art and music.

One of the people taking part was David (pictured above), who was suffering from anxiety and depression and found it difficult to be around groups of people. After some discussions with David, his Blueprint advisor Sheelagh found out that David's passion was exotic plants and pets. After working with David over several sessions she found him a work-experience placement with the local council and within weeks he was ready for job interviews. David did volunteer work at a local exotic pet shop and the owners were so impressed with his enthusiasm and commitment that they offered him a permanent job. He is managing his illness and is very happy at work.

David said: "I could never imagine going back to the way I was. I feel so much better and I'm looking forward to the future."