Project Bloom helps young adults blossom through cultivating work and volunteering skills, nurturing talents and growing confidence.

What is Project Bloom?

Project Bloom offers something different: it’s not a classroom and it’s not a workplace, but a supportive space that combines the best of both. It’s designed for young adults with disabilities who are ready to move forward but need the right environment to bridge the gap between education, training, and employment.

On Project Bloom, participants can:

  • Build confidence and independence through practical, hands-on activities

  • Develop key life and work-related skills at their own pace

  • Gain meaningful experience that opens the door to volunteering, training, or work opportunities

  • Develop and pursue interests of their own

  • Celebrate their progress and achievements along the way

 

Project Bloom builds independence through life skills and personal development. In ELHAP’s unique five-acre woodland, participants can also enjoy practical sessions in horticulture, conservation, woodwork, fitness and the creative arts. Together, these create a safe stepping stone for those who want to grow, connect and socialise with others, and take their next steps in life.

 

Eligibility

Project Bloom is specifically for young adults with disabilities aged 18+ who want to build independence, confidence, and their potential. To participate, they need to:

  • Able to work productively in a group/team

  • Motivated and interested in developing skills and knowledge

  • Be able to follow instructions with limited support and supervision

  • Feel comfortable in outdoor spaces at ELHAP and local community which can be busy and noisy

  • Working towards completing activities and tasks independently

Project Bloom may not be the right fit for everyone. For those who might prefer something different or need higher support, we also run a range of other projects for young people and adults.

 

What to Expect at Project Bloom

From September 2025, Project Bloom will run three days a week (Mondays to Wednesdays).

Then from September 2026, the project will run four days a week (Mondays to Thursdays).

 

The Project Bloom schedule includes a core morning session and an optional afternoon session. Participants choose subjects they are interested in and work towards completing the a certificated scheme  (AQA Unit Awards). These awards recognise the successful development of knowledge, skills, or competence and are issued as certificates. Once a unit is completed, participants can progress to further units within the same module or explore other available modules. Some of the modules that are available are:

  • Sports and fitness

  • Horticulture and Bushcraft

  • Woodwork

  • Life skills and cooking

  • Drama and creative arts

  • Volunteering

  • Independent living skills

Lunch Club is a social gathering; participants should bring a packed lunch and ELHAP will provide refreshments. One day a week, Lunch Club is open to any Project Bloom participant, even if they have no sessions on that day.

What happens in School/College Holidays?

Project Bloom will continue to run over school holiday but focuses on fun and recreation. The activities will be chosen by participants and will be a reward for the hardwork in term time.

 

What places are available?

Project Bloom is supported by the City Bridge Foundation. Successful applicants will receive two funded sessions a week, and these will be offered on an annual basis (subject to individual needs). There will be a charge for any additional sessions, which are subject to availability.

 

How to join Project Bloom?

After submitting the form below, the young person will be invited to an assessment session. This session will help us to determine whether Project Bloom is the right fit and ensures the placement meets their needs.

If you are interested in joining Project Bloom or would like to refer someone to Project Bloom, please complete our simple form at:

Project Bloom