Kingsholm Stars back Journey to Work Course

17/03/2009

Scotland and Gloucester rugby stars Rory and Scott Lawson today (17th March) presented certificates to students who have successfully completed the ‘Journey to Work’ course run jointly by 2gether NHS Foundation Trust and Jobcentre Plus.

The presentations by the unrelated Gloucester Rugby team-mates at Kingsholm followed the completion of the latest 17-week course which gives unemployed people who have experienced mental health difficulties the skills they need to return to work or study.

Occupational Therapist Nikki Cape, of 2gether NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We all need meaningful activity, positive social contact and a roof over our heads if we are to have positive mental health. Our course provides a real opportunity for people who have been out of work for a long time to gain the essential skills they need to re-enter the workplace and engage in meaningful activity.

“We focus on enabling individuals to manage anxiety, increase assertiveness and confidence. We develop work placements and consider potential barriers to employment so that our students are equipped to become an integral part of society. This initiative with Jobcentre Plus is an excellent example of bringing different disciplines together to achieve real change and opportunities for people.

“We are particularly pleased that Gloucester Rugby’s management and players have stepped forward to publicly support this mental health initiative. We hope their support will reinforce the message that mental health is everybody’s business.”

Gloucester Rugby hosted today’s presentation free of charge as part of its commitment to the Gloucester community.

“We are delighted to be able to provide complimentary facilities at Kingsholm for this group and also help them find work placements for the students,” said Patrick Morris, the club’s Conference and Events Manager said. “This is a very worthwhile initiative and it’s especially pleasing to see people grow in confidence and hear that they have moved 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 to Work course can contact Nikki Cape on 01452 891218 or 07900 918574.

Grandstand seats: Journey to Work students Joe Redman (front left), Morris Lawson (front right), Claire Hodges and Colin Clement (back, second right) pictured at Kingsholm after receiving their Journey to Work certificates from Gloucester and Scotland rugby stars Rory Lawson (far left) and Scott Lawson (far right) and Jobcentre Plus District Manager Charles Morse (back, centre)