On the 17th July 2007 the Princess Royal, HRH Princess Anne visited The Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre. The purpose of the visit was to demonstrate innovation and entrepreneurship in the 21st Century. At this time the Centre had only been open around a year, so there was a real buzz around the mill, where we proudly display the commemorative plaque at the entrance, today.
Among the preparations and excitement for the Royal Visit, work on regeneration didn’t stop either, as Halifax Opportunities Trust received two Highly Commended Regeneration and Renewal Awards for both Regeneration Partnership of the Year and Community-led Organisation of the Year.
Well-deserved recognition for the ongoing hard work that was taking place at Trust, where teams continued to support people into work through its employment and employability focus. In 2007 100 people were supported into work.
The Early years provision also continued to grow through working in partnership with other organisations and agencies, too. This was supported with the Trust being able to offer people learning opportunities in this sector and build their career in Early Years. In 2007, over 75 individuals enrolled on courses across Halifax. Through funding that supported this, the Trust was also able to refurbish a creche at Hanson Lane Enterprise Centre, which boosted childcare places from 10-16 – for mothers could pursue learning.
Learn more about our 21st Birthday celebrations
As well as the information from our archives and the contributions our connections are kindly providing to tell our story, we have lots of other things planned. Learn more on our official webpage, via the button below.