Adults in Bedford looking to build confidence and move towards employment are being invited to join a free outdoor training programme next month.
Community and environment charity Groundwork East is offering spaces on its Green Skills programme at Jubilee Park.
The eight-week course, which begins on Tuesday, 6 October, combines conservation and landscaping work with mental health awareness and employability training.
Practical skills
Local people taking part will spend two days a week outdoors on practical tasks like habitat improvement and horticulture, alongside one classroom-based session.
Classroom sessions will focus on CV writing, interview preparation and job searching.
Participants will also have the opportunity to gain AQA Unit Awards and work towards a certificate to support future applications for a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
Project officer Emily Ankers said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to improve your mental health, boost your skills, and support your aspirations.”
Building pathways
Mott MacDonald and WSJ fund the current Bedford cohort as part of their social value commitments for the East West Rail project.
Representing the funders, Orla Gibbons said the initiative was a chance to create a “positive, lasting impact” by helping people find pathways into the green economy.
Groundwork East has run similar programmes across the region for several years, and previous participants have praised the mental health and career benefits.
Reflecting on his time on the course, former participant Tom added, “I have ended the project happier and more in control than when I began.”
He added that the practical skills and team spirit helped put him on the verge of pursuing a dream of self-employment.
The course runs every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 10am and 3pm, concluding on Thursday, 26 November.
Anyone interested in joining can email east@groundwork.org.uk or visit the Groundwork East website.
