A PROJECT to reduce isolation amongst young mothers and fire their creativity has resulted in a number of them going on to get qualifications.
The Young Mums Fridays Designers Get Sewing project saw 30 women get together to learn new techniques, develop their communication, teamwork and budgeting skills as well as focus on issues around parenting. Nursery care was also provided.
The scheme was run by Inkberrow Design Centre Sewing Café Community Interest Company, based in Britten Street, and funded through grants from Redditch Borough Council and the European Social Fund.
As a result 12 of the women involved have achieved City and Guilds Level 1 in Sewing Machine Techniques.
Among the success stories is Tara Butler who is now going on to complete her Level 2 City and Guilds in Fashion and Textiles. The 26-year-old also now volunteers at the centre, has become a member of the board and is going to start manufacturing children’s clothes.
“This project has really changed my life. I am so much more confident now.” she said.
“Being at the centre has given me a new lease of life.”
Centre director Brenda Killigrew added: “It’s easy for young mums to become isolated and give up on the idea of a career. That’s what motivated us to apply for the ESF and Stronger Communities funding, although I had no idea how successful the projects would turn out.”
An awards ceremony is being organised outside the Town Hall as a celebration of the achievements of those involved and a thank you to Redditch Borough Council for backing the project.
The centre also supports young people like Trinity High School pupil Jess Grant.
The 15-year-old is undertaking work experience at the centre while studying City and Guilds Level 2 in Fashion in her spare time and has secured an apprenticeship at Rio hair salon in Headless Cross.
