Training Opportunities
There are several ways in which we can help you develop personal and work-oriented skills.
Basic Skills
In partnership with Crisis Skylight, we have an English club which helps service users improve their speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Football Sessions
Service Users have the chance to join the SIFA Fireside team and play competitively. This activity is great fun, helps with fitness but also teaches good teamwork skills. Every Tuesday at 11.45am
Volunteer Development Programme
This programme is funded by Big Lottery and is designed to help our service users gain the first step on the ladder towards employment.
Each programme runs for six months at a time with six trainee volunteers taking part. Trainee volunteers are required to volunteer for no more than two days per week (under 16 hours so it will not affect any benefits claimed). At the induction stage realistic goals and targets are set out so the trainee volunteer knows what to expect and can get the best from the programme. They are assessed on criteria such as attendance, punctuality and attitude. On completion, participants receive a reference to take on to their next venture.
We have had some great successes from previous programmes with three service users completing an accredited painting and decorating course and two service users gaining full time employment.
Catering training and employment opportunities
Our catering social enterprise ChangeKitchen employs two service users every 6 months on placement. In this way they earn as they learn. Full training is provided by ChangeKitchen Director Birgit Kehrer. Please visit the ChangeKitchen page for more information.
How do I access these services?
These services are only available to registered SIFA Fireside service users. See How to Access Our Services for more details.