The life-changing project putting young women in South Tyneside on path to 'Bright Futures'

Bright Future's Dominique Hendry and Lianne Reidy.

South Shields-based charity Bright Futures is working with women aged 16-25 who are facing complex issues, to help them back into employment.

The charity helps women, who may be battling substance misuse, offending, homelessness or domestic abuse, to rebuild their confidence and self-esteem in order to turn their lives around.

Over the last four years, the project has supported more than 100 women, giving them the opportunity to gain new skills, qualifications and improve their career prospects.

The support available can include CV writing, confidence building, completing job applications and preparing for interviews.

Now the charity is appealing to businesses in South Tyneside to help find new opportunities for these women, including work experience, volunteering or paid employment.

They want local employers to work in partnership with them, or to keep them in mind when positions become available.

“We know that there is a need and a general lack of provision in South Tyneside, but we also recognise that there are so few jobs that are suitable for the skill set, which is why we’re asking businesses to give them an opportunity," explained project manager, Dominique Hendry.

“A lot of them come in with nothing on their CV, it’s just about building their confidence and aspirations and providing opportunities.”

She continued: “The aim is to be the first port of call before placing advertisements on social media or job sites, and we offer ongoing support once an individual is in employment, to ensure the smooth transition into working life."

Having those opportunities can be life-changing for the women involved, Ms Hendry added: “We have a proven track record of engaging with women often hardest to reach, taking a holistic approach to meet the individual needs of the women we work with.

“All of the women say that the project has made a really big difference to their lives.”

To support the project contact Dominique Hendry on 07484904676.