Spelthorne Community Network has a strong tradition of offering client-centred daytime group activities which are often service-user led. We have links with the local Adult Education Centre where we offer courses in Computing and Food Hygiene. A local Befriending Scheme and Horticultural project are both successful and well supported.

'The Haven' is a Saturday social group where a hot meal is provided. Christmas and Bank Holidays are also supported by holding events - often decided upon by our Service-User Steering Group.

The Employment Advisor meets clients individually to consider a return to the workplace sometimes following sick leave and sometimes following a change of jobs. The Advisor can also offer advice on employment and Welfare Benefit rights. Career guidance, workplace conflict resolution, additional training and resourcing, voluntary work, work preparation and ongoing support services are offered to our clients.

Additionally, we offer a 'Back to Work ' skills course - 2 hours per week over 8 weeks
This covers, in a small group setting the following:

· Transferable Skills
· Why work is important
· Looking after ourselves whilst not in work
· Goal setting
· Budgeting Skills
· Vacancies
· Barriers and fears about moving on and into work
· Disability Discrimination Act - your rights
· Positive Thinking
· Adverts
· Letter writing skills
· Welfare Benefits - information
· Application Forms
· C.V. preparation - writing
· Interview skills
· Confidence Building /self esteem/assertiveness
· Communication Skills
· Time Management
· Stress Management

Sue Tanner, Employment Advisor.