A new café in East Belfast will provide a range of training and development opportunities to 20 local marginalised young people, aged from 16-25.
Orchard @ The Foundry, a new café which is opening at The Foundry on Lower Newtownards Road, will be operated by Orchardville, a registered local charity and social enterprise committed to changing the lives of marginalised young people by offering opportunities to learn skills that will enhance their employment prospects.
Explaining how the café will provide a channel for developing young people’s skills Orchardville Chief Executive, Joan McGinn said: “Orchard @ The Foundry is funded by the International Fund for Ireland under their Personal Youth Development Programme (PYDP) and the design and development of the space was supported by the Urban Villages Initiative. The café will provide meaningful work placement and training opportunities, as well as on-site support to young people to develop their catering and hospitality skills.
“It will help them develop their employability and communication skills as well as improving the life skills that foster good relations, build confidence and resilience.”
She continued: “We believe that with the right support, any individual can reach their full potential and achieve their employment aspirations.”
The Orchard @ The Foundry initiative is part of Project Fusion, which is funded by the International Fund for Ireland Personal Youth Development Programme. It provides individually based activities to marginalised young people to support them to overcome personal challenges.
Each young person is mentored by a Youth Outreach Officer, who supports them to attend activities, training and work experience. Good relations and diversity activities form an integral part of the programme.