The New Start programme was designed for young learners experiencing major barriers to work, including mental health difficulties and low self-esteem. It provides advice, guidance, training and support to enable learners to identify and work towards achieving short and long-term career goals.
At the core of the programme, bite-size sessions tailored directly to the needs of Runcorn-based employers ensured learners were gaining skills that were relevant to the local job market. Cornerstone sessions covering health and wellbeing including a balanced diet, confidence-building and stress management also played a key role in the project.
The young learners were encouraged to improve their Maths and English, and gained additional support with specific learning difficulties, including Dyslexia and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
They also enjoyed wellbeing experiences – including a cultural trip to the British Music Experience and treatments at the Salon.
Richard’s Story
A volunteer at his local Barnardo’s charity shop, Richard had also worked in the Retail Sector and as a summer camp Activity Instructor. However, long-term unemployment had impacted his confidence and – despite previously making multiple applications for local roles – his motivation for remaining active within the job market had dwindled. Richard was comfortable in his voluntary routine and recognised that he needed to challenge himself to progress.
This has been the best few weeks. I have gotten so much out of then course and feel like I have gained more confidence. Alan is the best tutor and I have made so many new friends. I’d recommend this course to anyone.
Richard made a positive impression on the group from his first day. Taking it upon himself to engage with other learners and encourage them to take part in activities that they may have otherwise shied away from. He set a target for himself to ‘identify a career progression’ and this – coupled with his previous experience working with children – sparked an interest in Teaching Assistant opportunities.
On the visit to the British Music Experience, Richard plucked up the courage to sing and play guitar in front of his fellow learners, showing strong leadership and a great willingness to contribute; skills that will benefit him in the job market. He is planning to enrol on a Teaching Assistant programme, as well as being booked onto multiple opportunity workshops including a Travelodge Workshop, CLIC’s Meet the Employer, a Barclays Life Skills day and Alder Hey Hospital’s Careers Seminar.
