This webpage is updated regularly with opportunities and activities for anyone with lived experience of homelessness who wants to get involved in our businesses and our entrepreneurship offering. Some things can be done in your own time on a computer, some take place on online on Zoom and some are available in-person.
There are lots of volunteering and training opportunities currently live across our businesses – especially in London-based shops and Merseyside-based furniture workshop – scroll down for more information.
Crisis Enterprise & Innovation is made up of many teams. Together we operate 10 shops in London (four of which include coffee bars) and a furniture restoration workshop, based in Merseyside. Up until July 2022, we also managed a flagship Cafe from Crisis, attached to the London Skylight. Our Venture Studio from Crisis for startups offers support and grants to those interested in education, training and self-employment opportunities through our Changing Lives grants programme.
Our businesses have a long history of volunteering, training, learning and work experience that have helped Crisis members move closer to employment, enhance practical skills and improve self-esteem. We have worked with members who have benefitted from a safe, professional structure to build relationships and try new things.
Here’s what a Housing First coach said about one of our programmes:
"One of our Housing First members was part of the Café training programme and it was a life changing experience for him. Being part of the programme helped him to build confidence and regain his sense of identity."
Behind the Scenes is a chance to meet the Retail Team and get a flavour of the RTP training and volunteering opportunities available at Crisis. Get comfortable in the environment and have your questions answered to be able to make an informed decision about whether to apply.
Interested in a career in: Project Management, Business Administration or Software Development? Then join Breakthrough's Pre-Apprenticeship Programme! Crisis members and friends across our networks have been warmly invited to apply.
Twice-monthly sessions for hand sewing, fixing buttons, darning jumpers. Come for a cuppa, have a natter and learn new skills. This session welcomes Crisis members and anyone with lived experience of homelessness. NEXT SESSION: WEDNESDAY 6TH JULY
Use your experience of homelessness to assess young businesses and their impact on ending or preventing homelessness. This opportunity is a remunerated. Express your interest before 20th June.
Access a unique mixture of learning new skills, experience in commercial business and a chance to build meaningful connections.
With grants ranging from £250 to £5,000, we support around 70 Crisis members each year to access the tools and equipment, start training and pursue qualifications needed to achieve their ambition.
"My coaches helped me secure a Crisis Changing Lives grant so I could get started as an illustrator."
Idea Clinics take place online every 2 weeks to help explore for very early-stage ideas.
Health and Safety skills quiz (hosted on Kahoot)
When: Anytime
Customer service skills quiz (hosted on Kahoot)
When: Anytime
We are looking forward to making more short videos in 2021 to help build confidence in the kitchen and sharing skills relating to all of our Enterprises. Contact us via the contact form if you’d like to be involved, or have ideas for lessons you’d like to learn.