Community Wood Recycling member The Wood Shack is part of JERICHO, an award-winning Birmingham charity set up in 1993 which is dedicated to helping those facing employment barriers. Recognising the power of working with wood to transform lives, in 2010 JERICHO established The Wood Shack as part of its mission in the community.

This year marks The Wood Shack’s fifteenth birthday. During this time it has provided opportunities to more than 100 volunteers and trainees, and collected over 6,000 tonnes of wood to sort for reuse. At an open day to mark the occasion, visitors toured the premises, explored nature-friendly display areas, and saw the new Super Shed, which will host community activities and workshops.

The event showcased the achievements of inspiring individuals whose lives have been changed through their time at The Wood Shack. Participants, including young people facing social isolation and survivors of modern slavery, have developed skills and gained work experience, setting them on a path to stability and independence.

JERICHO: Transforming Lives Through Employment

The Wood Shack is one of seven social enterprises operated by JERICHO that provide marginalised young people and survivors of modern slavery with training, mentoring and hands-on work experience. This holistic approach fosters confidence and inclusion while improving long-term employability.

Addressing Youth Unemployment

Some areas of the West Midlands have youth unemployment rates nearly three times the national average. Many young people struggle to enter the workforce, particularly if they lack qualifications or face additional challenges such as mental health issues or unstable living conditions. Being out of work at a young age can have long-term negative effects on both career prospects and well-being.

JERICHO’s Supported Apprenticeship Project provides a structured route into employment. Apprentices gain real work experience while earning a wage, supported by mentoring, training and personal development. A dedicated People Support Officer helps each apprentice stay engaged, develop essential skills and achieve recognised qualifications.

Supporting Survivors of Modern Slavery: The Equiano Plus Project

Escaping exploitation is just the first step for survivors of modern slavery, who often face unemployment, unsuitable housing, isolation and trauma. JERICHO’s Equiano Plus Project provides tailored support, helping survivors rebuild their lives through practical opportunities that lead to economic independence.

Through partnerships with construction clients, Equiano Plus offers work experience and a pathway to stable employment, helping survivors transition to self-sufficiency.

If you live near Birmingham and are interested in JERICHO’s cleaning, renovation, co-working, laundry, second-hand, catering or of course wood reuse services, visit their website or get in touch. The Wood Shack also offers community workshop sessions for a fun and social way to improve your woodworking skills.