Joining in Motion 2025 (G.I.F.T.): Empowering Employability

Joining in Motion project: G.I.F.T. Vision for Community Growth

The landscape of modern employment is shifting, and for many in our community, the journey towards a fulfilling career can feel like an uphill struggle. Recognising the unique barriers faced by local residents (ranging from skills gaps to a lack of confidence), GIFT Academy launched the Joining In Motion (J.I.M.) project, in a proud and strategic partnership with Making Education a Priority (MEaP) and Inside Track Employment (ITEM). Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund Awards for All, this initiative represents a transformative approach to employability, social inclusion, and personal development.

By combining the grassroots and community expertise of G.I.F.T. with the educational and mentoring framework of MEaP, this project has successfully provided a lifeline for individuals ready to move their lives forward. A central highlight of this initiative was the active participation of MEaP Employability participants fresh from the TECHWELL 2025 project, who beyond the bespoke, face-to-face support they received that was designed to bridge the gap between their current circumstances and their professional aspirations, got to also live the full community side of the JIM programme.

A Holistic Partnership for Sustainable Success

The synergy between GIFT and MEaP is built on a shared vision: that education and community support are the primary drivers of urban regeneration and personal empowerment. The J.I.M. project was not merely about writing a CV or attending a single workshop. It was a comprehensive 12-month programme including weekly group wellbeing sessions (such as walking groups, healthy cooking tasters, community gardening visits), and weekly online confidence/ESOL discussion sessions, and weekly “drop-in” sessions to address relevant individual challenges. These align with the approved activity set (wellbeing, confidence-building/language support). The programme was delivered January to December 2025 two sessions per week, and designed to dismantle the specific hurdles preventing participants’ entry into the workforce.

Through this partnership, participants were able to access a wealth of shared resources. The project used asset-based community approaches, such as “Achiveving together” (a value shared by GIFT, MEaP and ITEM) focusing on the inherent strengths of each individual rather than their perceived deficits, and going further than showing participants how to do things but doing it with them. This positive reinforcement proved essential in fostering the resilience needed to navigate today’s competitive job market, reinforcing not just their job abilities but also their mental and physical wellbeing in active sessions.

Face-to-Face Support and Personal Development Plans for tailored inclusion

One of the most impactful elements of the Joining In Motion project was the provision of face-to-face support. In an increasingly digital world, the value of direct human interaction cannot be overstated. MEaP Employability participants benefited from one-on-one sessions where they received expert advice tailored to their specific needs. As Satisha, one of the later stages session remarked,

The face-to-face sessions really encouraged participants to discuss the barriers they face to employment and education, while the chance for face-to-face contact motivated many to attend as a way to overcome social isolation.

Every participant worked closely with mentors to create a personalised Individual Action Plan (IAP). These plans acted as a roadmap, identifying clear goals and the practical steps required to reach them. Whether it was overcoming anxiety related to interviews or identifying transferable skills from unconventional backgrounds, the face-to-face nature of the support ensured that no participant felt like just another number in a system. This human-centric approach allowed for the development of “Self-Management” skills, empowering individuals to take charge of their own professional and personal trajectories.

Practical Work Experience and Skill Acquisition

The J.I.M. project recognised that confidence is often born from competence. To facilitate this, the programme offered a light-touch action plan and signposting to volunteering/employment routes, in line with the project’s aims to build skills, confidence and community connection. Each participant was provided a diverse range of voluntary work experience opportunities across various sectors, including administration, logistics, gardening, and sales. By participating in these roles within the consortium and through the Manchester Volunteer Centre, attendees gained “real-world” experience that significantly enhanced their employability.

These practical sessions were complemented by twice-weekly training workshops focusing on life skills with immediate, real-life applications. For many, these sessions were a turning point, providing the technical and social tools necessary to thrive in a workplace environment. For those facing mental health-related challenges or social isolation, these activities served a dual purpose: improving physical and mental well-being while simultaneously building a professional portfolio.

Building Inclusion and Raising Aspirations

At the heart of the Joining In Motion initiative is a commitment to equality and community cohesion. By bringing people together from diverse backgrounds, the project fostered a sense of belonging and mutual support. Online support groups were established to allow participants to connect, share experiences, and exchange advice, ensuring that the momentum gained during face-to-face sessions continued at home.

We also added extra ESOL-friendly content and a second weekly Zoom drop-in during peak enrolment weeks to accommodate learners with caring responsibilities and long-term conditions without affecting scope or budget!

The ultimate goal of the collaboration between GIFT, MEaP and ITEM is to raise the aspirations of our community. By providing the right tools, the right partnership, and the right environment, the J.I.M. project has proven that with dedicated support, individuals can overcome barriers to education and employment. We are incredibly proud of the MEaP Employability participants who took part, showing remarkable growth and determination. As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Joining In Motion will continue to inform our mission to put people first and make education a priority for everyone.

Outcomes

Participants reported improved wellbeing and regular attendees reported reduced isolation using short pre/post check-ins. The ESOL learners also attending weekly Zoom discussions particularly noted an increased confidence in everyday English. 38 participants were reached between January and 4th of September 2025, of whom 70% were women, 30% ESOL learners, and 30% aged 18 to 30. 6 participants have taken up volunteering tasters (admin/gardening/logistics) with our partners, supporting progression.

Resources and references

• The original Joining in Motion (J.I.M.) project post from Grace Incorporation Faith Trust here
• • Short promotional video (mobile format)