Crisis SmartSkills
Between 2006 and 2009 Crisis worked with seven of its partner SmartMove projects to pilot a person-centred approach to learning and skills alongside access to the private rented sector (PRS), entitled SmartSkills.
This service was set up to enable people housed within the PRS to build their confidence and basic skills, integrate into the local community and access further training opportunities and employment where appropriate.
Evaluation
In February 2009 Crisis commissioned independent researchers to conduct an evaluation of Smartskills. The evaluation shows strong evidence that participation in the programme greatly enhanced self-esteem and life skills for participating learners.
Smartskills provided a bridge to further learning for many private tenants at risk of homelessness. It was particularly valuable for people with a history of offending or substance misuse, and victims of abuse.
- Crisis SmartSkills evaluation
- Crisis SmartSkills evaluation executive summary
- Presentation of evaluation findings
Operations Manual
All the SmartMove projects in the pilot did already help their clients to overcome the diverse range of problems arising from independent living.
SmartSkills introduced a new and explicit learning and skills dimension to this work, within an accredited framework that provides learners with recognition of their achievements.
While working with the SmartSkills network, Crisis developed an Operations Manual and Resource Bank that to help statutory and voluntary agencies to implement elements of learning and skills into their work with homeless and vulnerable people.
Beyond the lifespan of the Smartskills and Smartmove projects, Crisis continues to support voluntary and statutory agencies working with the private rented sector through our unique resources on private renting, and our dedicated support and funding through the PRS Development Programme.
