New skills and confidence – from turning over a “New Leaf”

ORGANISATIONS involved in a £10.6 million employment project for Warrington and Cheshire have celebrated a year of success for the programme.
New Leaf, funded by the European Social Fund and the National Lottery, through the Big Lottery Fund, helps participants to gain the skills, confidence and motivation for employment.
Attendees from 25 organisation attended the celebration at Orford Jubilee Hub in Warrington, with the theme of “The Participant’s Journey”, celebrating the success of their first year and to review what could be done better going forward.
The event was opened by Chris Mcloughlin, chairman of the New Leaf Board, and was followed by a number of presentations and workshops which aimed to identify ways participants are attracted, supported and achieve successful exits from the programme.
Also speaking at the event were successful participants, including Karen Hinchcliffe, who received mentoring support from the Disability Information Bureau to return to work after illness and said: “I feel fortunate to have be part of New Leaf. Thanks to my mentor I not only got my mojo back but also a job that I love. For the first time I am now very much looking forward to the future.”
Delegates met a number of participants who had been helped by New Leaf, including local artist Erin Kinvig and craftsman Simon Taylor. They were entertained by close up magician Steven J Icke, who through a variety of support from New Leaf partners, including Upturn Enterprises, Weaver Vale Housing Trust, Groundwork and Golden Gates Housing Trust, now has the confidence to become self-employed.
Programme manager Andy Rawlins said: “The day was a great success. It allowed us to see just how much we have achieved in our first year and what we can learn from each other going forward.”
New Leaf is a £10.6 million 3-year scheme, led by Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT), and is part of the Building Better Opportunities programme funded by the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund.
To find out more about New Leaf and how their dedicated team can help call 01925 452132, email [email protected] or visit www.newleafcheshire.co.uk