Motiv8, a project delivered by a partnership of social housing providers, led by Jigsaw Group,  works with the most disadvantaged and vulnerable residents in Greater Manchester to help them overcome deep-rooted barriers to employment. The project has supported over 3,000 residents to date.

“Framed by Greater Manchester’s Local Economic Partnership priorities, Motiv8 tackles issues of low levels of employment, low income, and poor health outcomes, moving the most marginalised groups towards economic activity.  We support those facing a range of multiple complex challenges including physical and mental health conditions, domestic abuse, homelessness and substance dependence. Almost two thirds of the residents we work with have been unemployed for five years or more.

Our programme provides a unique, collective offer of support and learning opportunities from a wide-range of specialist partners such as Shelter, Challenge 4 Change and Wai Yin.

Through a personalised action plan, we empower residents to overcome the individual issues they face.These action plans can include a range of learning opportunities, for example ESOL classes, fork lift truck driving and NVQ qualifications. Crucially, the learning often also includes life skills such as budgeting, time-keeping, self-care and courses to improve self-esteem and build confidence.”

Motiv8 is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and the European Social Fund.