CRUMBS, a 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 this October following on from the introduction of a state-of-the-art IT suite two months ago.

Up to 10 people to date have completed training sessions 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 one of Dorset’s largest grant-giving charities, the Talbot Village Trust, and Jake Perkin is one individual who has benefitted through using the CRUMBS IT suite. Three years ago, Jake 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.

Thanks to the enhanced IT facilities and training sessions offered at CRUMBS, Jake has not only achieved an industry endorsed award in administration and IT skills but has now become an integral part of the CRUMBS volunteer team. As a volunteer, Jake 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 commented: “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 benefitted me personally.”

Caroline Cooban, Head of Philanthropy at Talbot Village Trust, said: “Hearing Jake’s story is truly heart-warming. We are delighted every time we can see the impact our support can have on an individual, as well as the organisation. The transformation that Jake has experienced is life changing, and we cannot wait to hear more of his journey, as well as stories of other individuals who are due to embark on the new digital skills programme this October.”

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.