Introduction

Liz Illman set up the British Community Trust (BCT) in Lima when John was British Ambassador there from 1995-1999. They have since formed a similar charity in the U.K. in order to raise funds to continue the work in Peru. The Trustees are friends who visited them in Peru and saw the need to offer help to the many under privileged young people seeking to forge a future for themselves and their country.

The latest gardening graduates, with their tools and certificates, and the British Ambassador, Catherine Nettleton, and representatives of the ACPBs, Jardines de la Paz and CEDRO

One does not need to spend long in Lima to understand how desperate that need is. Bright intelligent young people are growing up in miserable cicumstances beyond their control. They fall victim to crime, drugs, sexual exploitation and other inhuman conditions. Shelter homes have been established for a small minority, who receive some education and perhaps a basic training. However, at the age of 17 or 18, they must leave their homes and fend for themselves. They may be forced to go back to the streets and the sad cycle repeats itself unless some form of further training is created for them which can lead to the employment they so badly need and deserve. In most cases, they will grab any opportunity offered with both hands.

The BCT decided to work with those already active in this field, to raise funds and provide opportunities for candidates from existing homes, and others less fortunate, for vocational training. The first project for the BCT in Lima was a very successful gardening course.

The BCT also try to boost confidence and self esteem. It has been slow but rewarding work and, with your help, we can accelerate our efforts. Our aim in Lima and the UK is to generate the funds which will enable us to realise these objectives. It is amazing how even small amounts can reap success.