The RISE Project, run by Southern Housing, Education Futures Trust, and Hastings Borough Council, aims to boost employment and economic growth in Hastings.

The project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSP) and is led by the Let’s Do Business Group.

It offers workshops to improve skills and employment prospects for residents of north-east Hastings.

RISE is now running a new set of workshops for 2025, covering topics such as cooking, welding, and beauty.

(Image: RISE Project)

Beth Sebbage, project officer at Southern Housing, said: “We’ve over 4,000 homes in Hastings and we’re committed to supporting our residents to help boost their incomes and career prospects.

“RISE is a fantastic project, providing residents with both the practical skills and the confidence they need to gain new employment, as well as having a positive impact on the community.”

Recent successful workshops have included barista training, floristry, baking, DIY, and childcare.

The childcare workshop introduced attendees to various forest school and playgroup activities and their role in child development.

Participants also had the chance to speak to employers, including Education Future’s Trust and In2Play, about volunteering and working in childcare.

With more than 40 local nurseries, schools, and playgroups within a five-mile radius, this course offered a potential career path for local residents.

Attendees said the course gave them insight into working with children and a better understanding of employer expectations.

One said: “I’ve learnt new skills which will help me gain confidence in getting a job.”