The  Showcase was an opportunity for the 22 community projects to talk about their achievements and experiences.  Many projects brought beneficiaries with them to discuss how their work has helped them.  Here is a brief outline of all the projects that Swindon Borough Council Co-finances:

The Swindon Foyer

Houses and supports 57 vulnerable young people, many of whom have not worked for at least 6 months. ESF has enabled such young people to identify and overcome boundaries that have prevented them from entering work, training or education. Based at The Foyer, Bath Road.

The Prince's Trust

Promoting enterprise and supporting people into self-employment. Based at the Oakfield Campus, Walcot.

The Welcome Centre

Empowering local families to improve their life and life chances including support with day-to-day difficulties and issues, advocacy and training in basic and key skills.Based at the Oaktree School campus, Park South.

TWIGS

Therapeutic Work in Gardening.  Affecting positive change for people experiencing mental health problems through creative learning in a therapeutic environment. Based in beautiful grounds at Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor.

Parks Advice Point

Free and confidential service information and advice on welfare benefits, debt, housing and employment. Helping people take control of their lives and their futures. Based at Cavendish Square, Park South.

West Swindon Family Project

Taking a community social work approach to support vulnerable families and children. Based at Gainsborough Way, West Swindon.

Swindon Learning Ambassadors

Using locally based co-ordinators to support Learning Ambassadors to give people in neighbourhood renewal areas accessible learning opportunities. Working in Moredon, Pinehurst, Penhill and the Central area. Ends Sept.2007

Druglink Project X

Pre residential rehabilitation support and treatment in the community. Located near the Town Centre.

Parks and East Walcot Neighbourhood Renewal Company

Promoting learning for disadvantaged adults through Community Education outreach and a locally based DIY Skills training workshop. Based at Cavendish Square, Park South.

LEAVES

A Workers’ Cooperative providing access to supported self employment by people with mental health problems through capacity building. Operating from the Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor.

The Learning Curve & V.A.S

Specialised in-house skill sharing for voluntary and community groups in and around Swindon to enable them to operate more effectively. Operating from VAS at John St., Swindon

Citizens Advice Bureau

Provide a dedicated specialist service in debt case management and exploring the financial and emotional benefits of employment for each individual. Located in north Swindon at Pinehurst Peoples Centre.

U-Too

Supporting young parents to achieve their potential, empowering them to take advantage of life’s many opportunities.  Operating from The Link Centre.

Living Options

A user led organisation that promote and support physically disabled people to achieve their aims in life through equality of opportunity and active participation. Based at Pinehurst Peoples Centre.

Phoenix Enterprises

At Phoenix Enterprises we provide a working environment that is safe, supportive, stimulating and empowers people experiencing mental health problems to fulfill their potential. Based at the Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor.

Project Spear

Works to relieve the illness of those who self harm and those who are suffering from stress related illness. Raising self-confidence and promoting learning opportunities helps people to take steps to employment.  Based at Milton Road.

Stepping Forward

Supporting adults who have been affected by either drug or alcohol substance abuse. Our funding helps us promote self-confidence, skills and preparing for employment. Based at St Johns Church, Cavendish Square, Park South.

Back on Track & Third Age Challenge

Helping long-term unemployed adults to secure work or suitable training. Support with CV writing, application forms, confidence and skills building. Based at Hawkins Street, Rodbourne.

Swindon and Wiltshire Alchohol & Drugs Service

Supporting people with concerns or difficulties about drinking or drug use. Counselling, training, skills development and support. Based at Milton Road.

Workers’ Educational Association, Swindon Womens’ Branch

Tailor-made courses providing opportunities for women to grow and develop. Based at The Health Hydro, Milton Road.

VAS Trustee Network

Established to improve governance within the charity sector through ongoing support and assistance.Located in John Street, Swindon.

New Dimensions

Providing a range of employment orientated educational programmes in small friendly groups, for people experiencing or recovering from mental health problems. Based at the Pinehurst People's Centre.