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In 2010, Ben Briscoe, 22, had no job and nowhere to live. He knew he had to do something to change his situation and, due to a new found positive attitude and determination, he has done just that.

Ben was lucky enough to get a room at the Stepping Stones hostel for the homeless, in Burnley. With their help, he gained a voluntary position through social inclusion organisation Bootstrap, working on community projects such as fencing, allotments and green spaces. Stepping Stones then signposted him to Hyndburn Homes and Danny Crangle, who was instrumental in helping Ben find permanent accommodation and a new job.

Ben has since been working as a Tenant Liaison Officer for Morrison Construction, who are contracted to Hyndburn Homes to replace roofs on a number of their properties. Ben now feels much more positive about his future. He said:
“My life is so much better, as the job has given me back my independence and a feeling of self-worth. I have a paid job, a flat which I have decorated throughout, and a great sense of pride and achievement. My Mum and I had fallen out and we were not on speaking terms, but all that has changed since I got my life back on track. Having a reason to get up each day has given me a purpose in life and the confidence to explore other avenues now. I really want to thank Stepping Stones, Hyndburn Homes and Building Foundations for all their help and support, as none of this would have been possible without them. I dread to think where I would be today if they had not stepped in and guided me to where I am today.”

Ben is one of many young people to have benefitted from Calico Enterprise and the Building Foundations programme.
Lewis Heskwith was taken on by Aqua Interiors through Calico Enterprise and Building Foundations. He said: “This is a real chance for me to complete my apprenticeship and ensure that I have a future in the construction industry.”
Peter Riley, who became a mature full-time student after being made redundant, was also hired by Aqua Interiors after Calico Enterprise contacted his college asking for candidates. He said: “This opportunity has really changed my life and given me purpose and assurance for the future ahead.”

Matthew Axon has a working apprenticeship with Concept Heating thanks to Calico Enterprise. He said: “It is such a relief to know that I have a future and a career when so many young people out there are struggling.”

Jack Brown was in full time education when Calico Enterprise sent an email to his college recruiting for apprentices. He has since been hired by Concept Heating. He said: “Thanks to Calico Enterprise and Concept Heating, my life is brilliant and my future is now attainable.”

Lewis Scanlon started an apprenticeship with building company Forrest through Calico Enterprise and the Preston Vocational Centre. He said: “I feel I have a future and a career to depend on throughout my life, and who knows where this will lead?”
Connor Lowe, with the help of Calico Enterprise and the Preston Vocational Centre, was able to find a bricklaying job with in-house training at Brammell Construction. He said: “I know I have been given a golden opportunity and I am determined to make a success of it and make my Mum proud.”

Peter Robinson was also lucky to find work as a trainee bricklayer/labourer with Brammell through Calico Enterprise and the Preston Vocational Centre. He said: “I can’t thank Calico Enterprise enough for giving me this opportunity… Just to know that they care about my future encourages me to do better every day.”