A project to help young people with a disability to live more independently and find a job has been launched.

The Bloom Project, a scheme run by The Children’s Centre, is open to young people who have previously been involved with The Children’s Centre Inclusion Project, and aims through group work to help build confidence and reduce the risk of becoming socially isolated.

The project will offer the chance to learn and develop skills through farming, horticultural work and activities at The Children’s Centre’s Community Farm.

The initiative is being supported by a grant from Manx Lottery Trust.

Fiona Dawson, the chief executive of The Children’s Centre, said: ’When working together the group will share formative experiences to build a sense of self and take part in sociable sessions focusing on reflection, discussion and friendship, all of which are great stepping stones to help find employment.

’We must say a huge thank you to Manx Lottery Trust for its support for this project.

’The grant will allow us to roll out the scheme while continually reviewing and adapting it to ensure a positive experience to improve the potential of everyone involved.’

Community Farm team leader Lee Brooks added: ’The Community Farm is a great environment to learn skills, get stuck in and see the value of their achievements.

’The young adults on this project have come so far already and there’s a world of new opportunities waiting for them.’

Lulu Gillow, chair of the Manx Lottery Trust, said: ’Manx Lottery Trust supports projects which will benefit the community not just in the present but in the future too.

’When we were asked to assist The Children’s Centre with The Bloom Project we were pleased to provide an opportunity for the young adults involved in the scheme to gain valuable life skills and build their confidence.’

To find out more about the work of the Manx Lottery Trust visit www.mlt.org.im.