AS part of a fact finding mission, HRH The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, was welcomed on a tour of CSV’s training centre in Redditch.

The facility is part of the UK volunteering and training charity CSV (Community Service Volunteers) and has been helping local people overcome barriers to employment since it started serving the area in 2000.

CSV’s Redditch operation, which is one of four CSV centres in the West Midlands, typically helps 16 to 19 year olds who are Not in Education Employment or Training (NEET) and older adults who are also looking to progress their lives and move into training or employment.

Sue Williams, CSV Centre Manager says: “We work with people who have faced many different challenges in their lives. Some are living with disabilities while others are making the transition from living in care to living independently. Many older adults who attend have been long-term unemployed and may have developed low self-esteem and confidence or stopped believing in themselves.

“It’s our mission to show that everyone has something positive to contribute to society and have skills that can be developed for fulfilling and interesting lives.”

Sir Jon Shortridge, CSV chairman said: “We are very honoured that The Princess Royal is taking such an interest in CSV’s mission to empower everyone to play an active and meaningful role in their communities.

“These are difficult times for many people and we are delighted that Her Royal Highness is visiting our project and meeting learners and staff as part of her visit to Redditch.”

As well as providing assistance with interviews and CV writing skills, CSV also provides an IT suite for adult learners signed up to the BBC Click campaign to encourage people to go online or attending community learning programmes run in association with Worcestershire County Council. The centre is also preparing to offer a new qualification for people considering a career in the uniformed services such as police, fire and ambulance.