The programme is open to:

• people aged 16-65
  
• people who are in temporary accommodation with the support of a key worker

The employer has discretion over the acceptance of an individual – and thorough information is made available to employers on which to base their decision

Timescales

The programme is available all year round although it is important that the employer receives full support prior to involvement with briefing taking a number of weeks.

Commitments

• To invest time in working with the young person and Business Action on Homelessness staff.
  
• To provide a full induction including health and safety
  
• To make available a member of staff to receive training as a ‘buddy’ for the young person
  
• Provide refreshments and food for the young person during the placement
  
• Make available any Health & Safety equipment required

Costs

The employer does not pay the young person this is dealt with by the programme.

Links

www.bhbcp.org.uk/services   For details of the programme featured on the Brighton Community Partnership website

www.bitc.org.uk   The Business In The Community website – for details of a range of business/community programmes including Business Action On Homelessness

Progression Routes

For employers, involvement may lead to the recruitment of new staff and for the young person, the possibility of a job with the placement employer or other employment. The young person will also receive guidance on next steps and future development and will be contacted monthly for 18 months after leaving the programme to support progress.

Any Other Information

48-60 homeless people participate each year, placed with local companies such as Marks and Spencer, Asda, One Digital, Integra and Hilton Metropole. Typically over half of participants gain a job through participation in the programme.