Sunderland
Beacon of Light
In 2022 alone, nearly 850 sessions were delivered face-to-face and with over 200 qualifications achieved.
The first Harrison Centre for Social Mobility was opened in 2018 in partnership with the Foundation of Light in Sunderland.
Based at the charity’s home – the Beacon of Light – the Centre provides tuition and training to help unemployed or young people who have recently left school to grow in confidence, gain qualifications, become more work ready and ultimately secure a job.
The Harrison Centre was founded by Sir David Harrison with a belief that no one should be held back by background or upbringing and, in partnership with the Foundation of Light, works with organisations to support disadvantaged people into employment.
Over the last five years thousands of young people, aged 13 and over, have taken part in courses providing essential skills in ICT/Digital, Managing Finances, Maths and English, Personal and Social Development and Business & Enterprise.
Sir David Harrison says: “The role of the Harrison Centre is to help young people get a job and then keep it until they get a better one. There is a genuine community within the Beacon of Light and it’s no surprise that the Foundation of Light has a national and international reputation as their work and staff are outstanding. They care about the community and helping people create better lives for themselves.”
Sir Bob Murray CBE, chairman of the Foundation of Light added: “Much has been achieved together over the last five years but myself and David have a long-term vision to create a sustainable portfolio of programmes to support our young people to do more and be more.”
“At a time when we are all facing unprecedented, challenging and changing times, now more than ever the Foundation – and our partners such as the Harrison Centre – matter to the people of the north east.”
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