Certificates and gifts were presented to 41 participants to mark their achievements on the Doorstep Learning Programme.

The free scheme, which is open to people aged over 19, was set up in 2005, by AmicusHorizon.

It aims to help people in Swale gain qualifications, boost their confidence and find employment while working closely with Jobcentre Plus and Kent Adult Education.

In total, 360 people completed courses in 2013, with more than 100 completing more than one course.

Among them is Jacqui Allcock who has gone on to set up ‘Jacqui’s Balloons’ after she completed several courses.

These included emergency first aid at work, health and safety and running your own business.

She said: “It helped with social skills and gave me more confidence. The courses are good because they motivate people.”

The Mayor of Swale, Cllr Sue Gent, and the housing association’s chief executive, Paul Hackett, attended the celebration event held at Teynham village hall in Belle Friday Close, on January 31.

It was also an opportunity to show a film, which has been produced to explain how the project has changed people’s lives. It will be used to support future funding bids as its current grant from the Big Lottery runs out in December.

Head of region community development Stephen Innis said: “The programme has given opportunities to so many local people.

“We want to secure funding so we can ensure people have the chance to make a positive contribution to society and fulfil their potential.”