Project Highlight: Bonny Downs Community Assocation
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Based at the Bonny Downs Church Hall in Newham, the BDCA – in partnership with a local Hindu-based charity, Skills Enterprise – runs a weekly drop-in session to support local residents in searching for jobs online, many of which have little-to-no experience with computers previously. They have also trained up 22 volunteers from the local community to help run the sessions, who will receive official accreditation as a Digital Champion.
Over 100 local residents have been helped by the BDCA’s Job Club, learning how to complete their job searches online, avoiding the possibility of sanctions from the Job Centre and the financial strain it could cause. The BDCA also provides advice sessions on benefits entitlement and makes sure attendees are aware of other support services in the area that are available to them.
I joined the Job Club for help in applying for jobs.
After a few sessions, the project coordinator there suggested that I join volunteering programme. I joined because I was interested in using my skills, learning new ones and meeting other volunteers. I found the course very interesting – the whole experience has improved my confidence and I have also learned new skills.
The course gave me the skills and expertise to help those who need it and I also received excellent advice from the coordinator who took the time to be very clear and supportive. We discussed lots of interesting issues and all the things needed as a Job Advisor volunteer which will help create a good relationship with users.
Volunteering has given me new friends, new interests, a more positive outlook and confidence. I have also gained employment as I’ve now found a part time job at Tesco.
I warmly recommend this place for everyone who needs to gain experience to help them get a job.