Cheltenham Town backs Journey 2 Work course

16/06/2009

Cheltenham Town Football Club hosted the presentations of certificates to the latest students to successfully complete the Journey 2 Work course run jointly by 2gether NHS Foundation Trust and Jobcentre Plus.

The students received their certificates at Whaddon Road after completing the 17-week course for unemployed people who have experienced mental health difficulties.

Occupational Therapist Louise Cleveland, of 2gether, said: “The course gives people who have been out of work for a long time the chance to gain essential skills they need to re-enter the workplace or to study.

“We all need meaningful activity if we are to have positive mental health. This initiative with Jobcentre Plus is an excellent example of organisations working together to give people real opportunities and promote social inclusion.

“We are particularly pleased that Cheltenham Town publicly supports this initiative and hope its backing will reinforce the message that mental health is everybody’s business.”

The Journey 2 Work course focuses on managing anxiety, increasing confidence and developing work placements with employers. It also considers potential barriers to employment so students are equipped to become an integral part of society.

Cheltenham Town hosted the course and presentation as part of its community programme.

The club’s Community Officer Mike Cook, who presented the certificates, said: “We have been delighted to be able to provide facilities at Whaddon Road to support this course.

“This is a very worthwhile initiative and it’s especially pleasing to see people grow in confidence and move forward in their lives.”
Charles Morse, Jobcentre Plus District Manager for Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “Our advisers have been working alongside staff from 2gether to really make a difference. There is clear evidence that when people return to work – even on a part-time basis – their health often improves, and this is what we are striving to achieve.”
Employers who want more information about the Journey 2 Work course can contact Louise Cleveland on 01242 710018 or 07771 684577.

Achieving their goals: Cheltenham Town Community Officer Mike Cook, left, and Emma James, right, of Jobcentre Plus, present certificates to Journey 2 Work students, from left, Adrian Sheen, Adam Bishop and Mia Parkander