The Upper Springfield Development Trust and The Ortus Group are pleased to announce to launch of the West Belfast Works Self-Employment Programme.
The programme sees 12 participants given the chance to develop their business start-up with support from experienced Business Advisors at The Ortus Group. Each participant is provided with in-depth training on areas such as marketing, business skills, legal structure and finance followed by the opportunity to work with the mentors on a one-to-one basis over the following year.
Funded by the Social Investment Fund (SIF), the West Belfast Works Self-Employment scheme is the final part of the current fund available within the West Belfast and Greater Shankill area. To date SIF has assisted over 300 individuals get back into work across West Belfast and Shankill including the provision of bespoke training across multiple fields and continuous support.
Mary Loughran, Employment Services Officer, Upper Springfield Development Trust commented:
“The West Belfast Works Programme has been a true success for the West Belfast and Shankill communities. We have assisted over 300 individuals get back into the working environment through flexible programmes, many of whom have now been offered permanent positions. This has been a positive programme for the city from the Social Investment Fund and this final stage helps to create a legacy of new businesses in the area.”
Stephanie Reid, The Ortus Group Business and Social Enterprise Advisor added:
“We are delighted to partner with the Upper Springfield Development Trust and Social Investment Fund to provide this programme. The individuals taking part all have unique business ideas and we are excited to help them grow their businesses over the next year and beyond. Aside from giving each participant the opportunity to succeed in their own business, the scheme has a long-term impact on the local community. The aim is that each of these businesses will thrive, create jobs in the local community and give back through different initiatives.”
Current participants on the programme are planning on launching a wide range of businesses from catering to online marketing, holistic therapies to joinery. Plus, three social enterprises are being set up as part of the initiative. The Ortus Group will follow their journey online – www.ortus.org
For more information on the West Belfast Works Self-Employment Programme please contact Sheila Harper, Marketing and Communication Executive:
028 9031 1002
