There is growing economic disparity in Greater Manchester, and a lack of opportunity for people to break the vicious cycle of poverty. Manchester is rapidly innovating and attracting business, however 620,000 people across the region are living in poverty. In 2022, Manchester had the highest number of homeless applications out of any local authority in England, and in 2023, Manchester City Council reported the highest number of families per 1,000 in temporary accommodation.

The Freedom Project offers trainees a hand-up. We create opportunities for people to learn new skills, find work, and improve mental and financial wellbeing. Freedom Coordinators work with trainees for six months, focussing on behaviour change to reduce the risk of unemployment and homelessness after the six-month training programme concludes. Trainees can develop work-ready skills through our vocational courses and reduce social isolation and through our range of creative programmes.