TEENAGER Ella Stimpson is a young woman with a future, thanks to the latest CatZero programme.
Full of enthusiasm Ella, from Hull, is on one of two 2019 CLLD programmes. The programmes, there have been four in all for the long-term unemployed, have been supported by CLLD (the Community Led Local Development). Monies from the European Structural and Investment Funds was secured by the city to run the over-arching CLLD programme.
Ella and her fellow participants are now three-quarters of the way through their programme, during which they have undergone weeks of confidence and team building and embarked on a whole host of vocational and academic qualifications. They have also spent time sailing – with their long-sail undertaken part-way through the programme.
For Ella the programme has been truly transformational – as it has for so many others in the past.
“I have been the youngest on this particular course and have loved every single minute of it,” said Ella, as she took part in the café day during which the CLLD participants planned, prepared, cooked and served a three-course meal for guests.
“I cannot tell you how much it has boosted my self-esteem and confidence, and I now know I can do things and there is a future out there.
“The sailing is incredible. It has made me see that there are more things out there in the world, it has opened my eyes to what is possible in life,” added Ella.
For 23-year-old David Dodd, the course has given him new hope, after bouts of anxiety saw his self-confidence plummet.
For him, the eight-day sail to the Isle of Wight was life-changing.
“It transforms your way of thinking, being on the yacht and being pushed to the max. Having to keep calm and work together really puts you into a different place,” said David.
David was also taking part in the café day, which was once again held at The Minerva Masonic Hall, in Prince Street, Hull. The CatZero team wishes to thank all at the hall for their continued support.