Next steps
The Next steps programme aims to support disabled and vulnerable adults to develop the confidence and skills to seek employment. The programme uses an intensive, integrated model of support, including one-to-one advice, guidance and coaching, as well as IT classes, employability skills workshops, life coaching, confidence-building arts and creativity sessions and healthy lifestyles support.
The Next steps programmes incorporates two projects and is generously funded by the Tower Hamlets Partnership through the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund:
Life Begins At...
Life Begins At... works with unemployed people aged 50+ and is aimed at rebuilding self-confidence and giving older people a fresh sense of opportunity. It uses tried-and-tested techniques which build self-esteem, challenge assumptions and equip participants to make the changes necessary to move into employment. The 10-week programme uses the performing arts and exercise as the key toold to unlocking potential, as well as intensive preparation to find and retain a job or further training opportunity. The project is delivered in the community surroundings of Tudor Lodge, 100m from the Bromley by Bow Centre, and is open to any residents of Tower Hamlets.
“I was asked by the job centre to sign up for the course. I hoped I would learn about computers and hoped that it would get me back into work but I didn’t really think that it would."
I did not like the course at first but in the end I enjoyed it. I have learnt some new things that I wanted, like computers, and also things I never expected!! I know now how to log on and have learnt to do emails. I did not think I could get work that was interesting before, now I think I can. I am looking for work now and have to go to a job agency."
"I wish an opportunity like this had been given to me when I was younger. I am 60 this year – it would have made such a big difference to me 10 years ago.” Life Begins At... Participant
Way Ahead
Way Ahead focuses on the needs of people with learning disabilities. It is a training programme which finds ways to overcome the barriers to employment for the target group and develop training and support structures for the voluntary sector in Tower Hamlets. Way Ahead builds on the experience of the Community Care project whcih has been deliverin high-quality services to people with disabilities in Tower Hamlets since 1989. The project worked jointly with Map Squad, Arteast and the Rhythm Factory in Whitechapel. Way Ahead works in partnership with the private sector to develop work opportunities in health and social care for people with learning disabilities.
