Catalyst Programme
| The Catalyst Programme is a funding programme which has been set up to distribute small 100% grants to local communities in the East Midlands This initiative has provided small grants to run activities which benefit local communities. To be eligible, the activity must improve the prospects of employment and community spirit in the area. Applications were invited from unemployed individuals, local community and voluntary groups, not-for-profit networks and forums, community owned businesses and some co-operatives. Catalyst projects have been delivered at the LRAC by tutors or people with specialist skills not only throughout the week but also at weekends or in the evenings. Loopy Tracks – using computers to produce music, where both skills in IT and music were learned Survival Quest – learning outdoor living skills, orienteering skills Driving to Employment – learning about carriage driving, horses, how to look after horses, employment in the equine industry Green Gym – keeping fit, learning about healthy lifestyles through outdoor activities such as horticulture, gardening and bee keeping Girls Allowed – a focus group run by and for young women, learning about alternative employment for women, women’s health issues and pregnancy advice All of the activities involved the development of team-working, communication, problem-solving skills and as such contributed to personal and social development of young people. The activities were also fun and learning should be fun. |
