On Wednesday 22nd November we held an inspirational reception that took place at the birthplace of British Motorsport and Aviation, Brooklands Museum. We were joined by over 90 attendees from a wide range of organisations across Surrey for the showcase of two of our funds that help individuals in and around the county. For a second time, the Surrey Young People’s Fund and Surrey Supported Employment Fund came together to reach out to those in need locally, giving engaging presentations and celebrating their work to date.
The Surrey Young People’s Fund helps disadvantaged young people achieve access to training and employment. A recipient of the fund bravely shared his story and explained how he has benefited from his grant since living in the UK, having fled his home country in the midst of war.
I am very grateful to the fund. This money has helped me acquire the equipment needed to pursue my studies and given me a more positive outlook on my future.
Mohammed*, SYP Applicant.
Having now supported over 150 determined young people improve their prospects and awarded almost £40,000 in grants since the funds inception in 2014, we are only wanting to continue to raise this number.
Nick Brooks, chair of SYP shared,
I was delighted to see so many of our county-wide network of referring agencies, funders and representatives of our public authorities in attendance. It was excellent to be able to welcome Peter Martin, Chairman of Surrey County Council, as a demonstration of support for the work being undertaken by Surrey Young People’s Fund helping so many disadvantaged young people across the county move towards work.
The Surrey Supported Employment Fund was established to help those with disabilities and/or mental ill health overcome barriers to work, contributing towards the social and economic wellbeing of Surrey. Grants are usually just a few hundred pounds, but these small amounts can be life changing.
Judy Corney, Employment Manager from referring agency Employment Support Retraining Agency, shared one recipient’s inspiring story of how the fund has helped her to achieve a level 2 British Gymnastics General Coaching Certification after a recent family hardship.
The impact on my life is so great it astounds me. My confidence in coaching has improved and has also led me on to an opportunity with the NHS Recovery College. I absolutely love it and believe that, after 47 years, I have finally found my calling.
Joanne*, SSE Applicant.
Joanne* is now hoping to take a course in Education and Training (Level 3 and 4) to enable her to progress in the workplace and undergo training to ensure coaching as a permanent career.
Roshan Bailey, Chair of SSE said,
We really do want to increase the grants we award, so this was an excellent occasion to illustrate the opportunities we can help open up for disabled people facing barriers to work, as well as the amazing long-term impact our grants have on their lives. I am delighted that our guests were so keen to help spread the message to people who need our support.
The Surrey Supported Employment Fund has awarded over £36,000 since its establishment in 2012.
Day to day I experience the impact both these funds have on individuals who have been supported with what often seems a little amount and day to day I’m inspired by this. The Brooklands event was a time to share this impact with our guests and encourage even more referrals. Should you know of any individual in need of support please encourage them to apply to the funds, we’re here to help!
Katie Owen, Grants Officer.
We would like to thank Allan Winn, Director of Brooklands for kindly hosting the event as well as our sponsor, Alliotts, for generously funding the evening.
If you would like to learn more about either fund, or how you can help support your local community, please contact us on 01483 478092.
