The Young People's DIY Skill Project, lead by volunteer Elasto, is designed to work with young people to encourage participation in DIY based learning but also in positive activities to build their resilience, social and emotional skills as well as raising their aspirations and confidence. 

The young people are directly involved in the project, learning new skills and challenges in helping them to complete the work needed. The project will not only improve their living standards but allow them to gain further DIY and home skills to use on their journey into independent living. 

With a 2 month time scale the project aims to decorate and restore a unit of accommodation with full support from the landlord. Local business have helped with donations and support to make this project achievable. The aim is to complete work such as stripping wallpaper, plastering, painting and decorating skills along the way.

We hope to roll this project out as a regular feature with the help of our landlords, local business, volunteers and our young people. 

“I am doing my placement at Doorway, Nuneaton as well as a studying at Newman University doing my Action Research. The research is focused on a small group of young people who are learning the Home Improvements (DIY) skills. The project aims to help unemployed, young people, who might also be homeless and therefore not in education, employment or training because of complex issues. 

When I walked in first time, I met encouraging and understanding staff and volunteers at Doorway. I have also met good engaging young people. Doorway is a lovely place to work, volunteer or do college placements.”

Elasto