Build Bolton Well is a work and skills property renovation project established in Nov 2019 with seed funding, to support clients with complex needs to discover that work is good for their wellbeing. Our outputs and outcomes are strongly endorsed by local partnerships. See video https://youtu.be/neR7xqrM3wM The ‘Fit 4 Life’ course, is used in Build Bolton sessions to address barriers to employability such as dealing with emotions, handling relationships in the workplace and at home, self-care including setting goals, life balance and managing money. These sessions are supported with additional one to one mentoring, and, of course a drink (non-alcoholic) and a nourishing meal completes the holistic benefit of the weekly session. The property we are renovating this year is one of the most vital community spaces in an area that ranks in the lowest 5% indices for deprivation offering space for many all age community groups including a Job Club and Foodbank.

What we'll deliver:

• At least 30 beneficiaries who will complete between 6 weeks and 12 months of our project
• Beneficiaries will move closer to employment and improve their wellbeing
• We will refurbish some of the most vital community buildings across our borough

Why it's a great idea:

A significant number of adults from Bolton’s most deprived wards have complex needs and in their isolation struggle overcoming the barriers to help themselves. E.g A criminal record, lack of recent work experience which even volunteering and recovery from addiction are of limited benefit. There is also a need for structure and confidence building and poor physical and mental health. Build Bolton provides a desirable work and mentoring opportunity for the people (especially men) we work with, to get them “work and training ready” for jobs they want to do and to encourage them and equip them to improve their own accommodation for their families. Our project will significantly improve the built and social environment to the local community

Steps to get it done:

• 30 beneficiaries will complete between 6 weeks-6months training
• A refurbished kitchen, hall, storage facilities, meeting room space and decoration

We currently run Tuesday 12-3pm, Thursday, Friday 11am-4pm every week (46 weeks per year). Clients are registered and then reviewed regularly during their engagement to ensure they are progressing with the tailored work and skills objectives set for them as well as the wider wellbeing goals. The Work and Skills component is supported by experienced builders who have trained many people over many years. The wellbeing component is supported by experienced Third Space Bolton coaches. A Clerk of Work role will provide some independent oversight and feedback of the project from a HSE and learning perspective.