Paragon Software Systems continues its support of Streetscape, a social enterprise providing opportunities for young unemployed people in London, with the purchase of a Ford Transit van for the team.
Streetscape runs apprenticeships that help young people find employment as landscape gardeners and Paragon, the routing and scheduling software company, has been a loyal Streetscape supporter since its launch in 2009.
“We are now fully mobile thanks to Paragon’s generous donation. To have the backing of a company with such a great reputation means a lot to us and to the people we work with. It helps them see that there are commercial organisations out there that have a social conscience, believe in what we are doing and are happy to give their support. The new vehicle gives us independence and will allow us to broaden Streetscape’s outreach,” says Guy Watts, Streetscape’s Chairman and Co-Founder.
Streetscape has also secured a permanent base at Myatt’s Field Park, which is a listed Victorian park in the south London Borough of Lambeth. Streetscape apprentices help with maintaining the park, as well as gaining invaluable on the job training and education working for Streetscape’s commercial and residential clients across South London.
Streetscape was set up during the recession but this has not limited its important work and already has two apprentices progressing through year-long apprenticeships. “It is very encouraging to see what we have achieved in such a short time. The people who come to us often lack confidence in their own capabilities and in dealing with the public. After six months with us our current apprentices have learnt new work skills, they recognise that they can contribute and their ability to communicate has come on in leaps and bounds, both in dealing with colleagues and our clients,” adds James Gubb, Streetscape’s Project Manager and Co-Founder.
“We remain committed to helping Streetscape achieve what it set out to do. These are challenging economic times and the Streetscape team is working hard to help unemployed young people find their true potential. The new van will undoubtedly help the organisation with the practicalities of getting out and about to do the work and we are really pleased to have been able to purchase it for them,” says William Salter, Managing Director of Paragon Software Systems.
