When Linsey Melo da Silva and her husband Daniel decided to launch Forge & Equip, they didn’t just start a business, they built a platform for transformation. From the outset, their vision was clear: to equip individuals with practical skills and a renewed sense of purpose, regardless of their background or barriers. And they didn’t wait to scale up gradually. On April 29, 2024, they went all in.
The couple, along with two other directors, established Forge & Equip as a Community Interest Company (CIC), combining commercial welding and fabrication services with a powerful social mission. Daniel, a skilled welder and course instructor, leads the technical side, while Linsey drives the strategic and community-focused elements. Together, they’ve created a three-pronged model: commercial fabrications, welding courses for hobbyists and career changers, and “Route to Employment” programmes designed for individuals navigating challenges such as addiction recovery or involvement with the criminal justice system.
The impact is tangible. Participants not only learn welding, but they also build confidence, develop teamwork and literacy skills, and prepare to step into employment with a sense of readiness and pride. “We’ve always believed in handshakes over handouts,” Linsey says. “There’s something powerful about learning a practical skill and contributing to a community project - it’s great for the mental wellbeing of our students”.
Their work has already sparked interest across East Lothian. Collaborations with organisations like the Fraser Centre have introduced woodwork classes for children and adults facing isolation, while a trial with The Ridge has laid the groundwork for future referrals. These partnerships reflect Forge & Equip’s commitment to making hands-on learning accessible and meaningful.
Support from Business Gateway East Lothian has been instrumental. After reaching out to the team, Linsey was connected with adviser Irene Ramsay, who provided one-to-one guidance and remained readily available by phone whenever additional support was needed. Irene helped Linsey secure East Lothian Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund Start-Up Grant of £500, which eased early financial pressures. East Lothian Council also funded expert help with HR policies and contracts - ensuring the CIC was built on solid foundations. Linsey plans on making use of East Lothian Council Economic Development’s fully funded Marketing and Strategy Expert Help programmes in the near future too. Additional funding from First Port, UnLtd, and the ASDA Foundation has helped the team expand their reach and refine their offering.
Looking ahead, Linsey and Daniel are focused on growth. More places on their programmes, more sessions for hobby welders, and stronger ties with fabrication companies are all part of the plan. They’re also exploring accreditation pathways to enhance the value of their training and open up new opportunities for participants.
For anyone considering a similar path, Linsey offers this advice: “Go see what support is out there. Don’t give up. Doing a social enterprise can be hard, but someone will have been there before you - and there’s always someone willing to give advice.”
Forge & Equip is welding more than metal - it’s welding hope, purpose, and opportunity into the lives of those who need it most.
Contact:
[email protected] | 07301 075000
