At St Basils, we are always looking for opportunities to support young people in their journey toward independence, stability, and a brighter future. Recently, we had the privilege of partnering with South & City College Birmingham and GMI Construction for a three-day DIY training workshop aimed at helping our young people gain practical skills, boost their confidence, and open up new possibilities for their futures.
For many of the young people we support, gaining the skills to live independently and maintain a home is an essential step toward overcoming homelessness. That’s why we were thrilled to see seven of our young people attend this workshop, which was part of GMI Construction’s Construction Cares community initiative. The workshop was designed to give participants hands-on experience in DIY tasks like tiling, carpentry, painting, plastering, and plumbing—all practical skills that can help them maintain their homes and consider a career in the construction industry.
The event provided more than just skills; it gave our young people a taste of something they might not have otherwise considered: the possibility of a future in construction. The chance to work with experienced professionals in a safe and supportive environment opened doors for them to explore new opportunities, gain confidence, and develop skills they can apply in their everyday lives.
One of the young participants, 21-year-old Courtney, shared how the workshop impacted her: “I’ve learnt a lot, and it has been fun and useful. Being here for three days has made me think about returning to education.” For many of the young people we work with, this kind of inspiration can be life-changing. Curtis, another participant, reflected, “This was fun, and I have enjoyed being here for three days and learning new skills.”
A key part of the workshop was the commitment to empowering these young people. At the end of the event, each participant was awarded a certificate and a starter tool kit. These tools will allow them to continue practicing the skills they learned, helping them feel more capable in their homes and their futures.
We are grateful for the support of GMI Construction and South & City College Birmingham for this important initiative. By investing in skills and futures, we’re helping to break the cycle of homelessness and build stronger, more resilient individuals who have the tools to thrive.