Blossom LGBT is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a significant grant from the National Lottery Community Fund to launch an innovative mentoring and employability scheme aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ young adults in their pursuit of successful careers. This exciting new project marks a pivotal moment for Blossom LGBT CIC as it expands its reach beyond Surrey and into the broader South East of England region.

The grant, generously provided by the National Lottery Community Fund, will enable Blossom LGBT CIC to create a comprehensive mentoring and employability initiative that equips LGBTQ+ young adults with the essential skills, guidance, and resources necessary to excel in the workplace. Included within the scheme will be life skill workshops providing a practical taste of the world of work, employability classes supporting attendees to achieve their dream jobs, and a volunteer-led mentoring scheme. The program will focus on fostering confidence, professional development, and personal growth, ensuring that LGBTQ+ young adults are empowered to thrive and succeed in their chosen career paths.

As part of this grant we are excited to welcome a number of new employees who we will begin recruitment for in the near future. These individuals will play a pivotal role in developing and implementing the mentoring and employability scheme, further enriching the organisation’s capacity to positively impact the lives of LGBTQ+ young adults. With this project, Blossom LGBT CIC aims to build a stronger, more inclusive community that recognises and celebrates the unique talents and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in the workforce.

“We are absolutely elated to have received this grant from the National Lottery Community Fund,” said Oscar Hoyle, CEO of Blossom LGBT CIC. “This funding will allow us to extend our reach beyond Surrey and create a truly transformative programme that empowers LGBTQ+ young adults to not only find meaningful employment but also to truly thrive in their chosen careers. This is a significant step forward for our organisation, but more importantly, it’s a win for LGBTQ+ young adults across the South East of England who I hope will become resilient, powerful, and most importantly proud.”

Blossom LGBT CIC’s new mentoring and employability scheme will provide LGBTQ+ young adults with access to valuable resources such as career guidance, professional workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking events. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, the program aims to dismantle barriers and biases that LGBTQ+ individuals may encounter in their career journeys.

The National Lottery Community Fund’s generous support underscores its commitment to fostering positive change and empowerment within local communities. Blossom LGBT CIC is honored to partner with such a forward-thinking grant giving organisation that shares its vision for a more inclusive and equitable society.