A Bournemouth-based charity that provides training in hospitality and catering, housekeeping, and administration for adults with a range of disabilities is set to launch a digital skills training programme in October following on from the introduction of a state-of-the-art IT suite two months ago.

So far, up to 10 people have completed training sessions at CRUMBS via the IT suite to help them gain pre-employment skills and build confidence with independent learning.

Funding towards the IT suite was donated by the Talbot Village Trust.

Jake Perkin has benefited through using the CRUMBS IT suite. Three years ago, he was living in a homeless hostel for people with drug and alcohol abuse issues. After joining the Shared Lives home and care scheme in 2019 via BCP Council, Jake’s carer recognised the need to give him a meaningful occupation and referred him to CRUMBS.

Jake has not only achieved an industry endorsed award in administration and IT skills but has become an integral part of the CRUMBS volunteer team. He is using his skills gained to assist with office administration and customer service duties, as well as supporting other individuals to complete training programmes.

In addition to upskilling, Jake wanted to learn how to develop relationships in a working environment as well as make new friends. He was mentored through his training programme by a member of the CRUMBS team who supported him to learn administrative tasks and responsibilities while completing his training units.

Jake said: “The programme at CRUMBS has really helped me to turn my life around. Not only have I been able to gain a qualification, but I’ve made some great friends along the way. Developing key skills at CRUMBS in the IT suite has led to me becoming a volunteer at the charity and I’m pleased to be able to put my new skills into practice. I can’t thank everyone enough who supported me to develop new skills that have really benefited me personally.”

Talbot Village Trust donates £1million each year in grants to organisations in south east Dorset. In 2021, the trust supported 53 organisations across community, education, youth, and faith and will continue to broaden their support for priority projects tackling climate change, mental health and wellbeing and education exclusion.