Introduction:

Linden Training provides a wide range of vocational, educational and training courses to students recovering from mental health problems. Students will be supported in regaining a structure to their daily lives, and encouraged to develop work roles through involvement in a graded training plan and flexible work/volunteer experience.

The project is committed to developing an approach to education that encourages all students to participate. It recognises that everyone has potential to contribute positively to society regardless of their age, race, culture or disability.

Educational programmes are based upon individual needs, abilities and capabilities negotiated with the student and reviewed regularly.

Our dedicated staff aim to deliver responsive, flexible courses and have a thorough understanding of the learning process. We recognise the value of providing a supportive learning environment so that all who participate have the ability to fulfil their potential.

We aim to facilitate students in making their own choices about course work. Staff will assist students to develop their own ideas, and give practical support to ensure that personal goals are achievable.

All staff work in a client-centred way, and assist the recovery process by maintaining a highly flexible training plan for each student which also responds to their health needs.
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Aims:

• Assist students who are not yet ready for work, but wish to make progress in that direction through training, education, and vocational work experience.
• Improve students self image and personal confidence through their involvement in individual and group activities.
• Encourage students to work towards achieving personal goals within a realistic and achievable timescale.
• Raise awareness about Further Education and Training Opportunities.
• Assist students to develop and maintain a daily routine, manage their current health problems, and provide support as they consider re-entry into work or volunteering.
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Eligibility Criteria:

• People suffering from severe and enduring mental health problems and
• Resident in Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland and are
• Aged 16-59 and are
• Not currently engaged in education and are
• Unemployed or on sickness from work more than 6 months
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Centre Information:

The centre is open for students between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm - Monday to Friday.

We offer excellent training facilities situated in the Park Centre, which is close to Newcastle College. If you are unable to come to the centre arrangements can be made to deliver out-reach training.

Training and education courses are free of charge, and students will have their travel costs reimbursed.
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What we offer:

• A step-by-step approach to achieve students' goals
• Learning that takes place in a friendly and relaxed environment
• A choice of educational courses to meet students' needs and extra help if required
• Support with Literacy and Numeracy
• Regular reviews to monitor progress
• Advice and guidance to help students move into mainstream further education, training or employment
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Courses we offer:

Key Skills in:

• Information Technology
• Communication
• Application of Number

Wider Key Skills in:

• Working with Others
• Problem Solving
• Improving Own Learning and Performance

Students are encouraged to develop a project of their choice and build a portfolio of evidence based upon their chosen topic and key skill area. Upon completion of a portfolio, students will be given the opportunity to sit an examination at the centre. Key Skills are transferable, which means they are relevant to most types of employment.

OCR Single Series examinations in English, Maths and several other subject areas.

Group activities are also available in:

• Magazine production
• Photography and Video production
• Healthy Living
• Art and Literature
• Creative Writing
• Food Hygiene
• Health and Safety
• First Aid Awareness

Basic Skills training and support is also available, either on a one-to-one basis or within very small groups. A fully qualified and experienced Basic Skills Tutor is available for these sessions.
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Enquiries, Referral Procedures and Enrolment:

Students may be referred by telephone or in writing to our occupational therapy team by a key worker or other health professional. A referral form is then sent out and should be completed by the Key Worker.

Once referral forms have been received an initial assessment is made by our occupational therapy team and an appointment is arranged for a preliminary interview. At this stage recommendations will be discussed with all individuals concerned and a suitable learning programme identified. Our objective is to encourage students to become actively involved in planning their own course of study.
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Progression:

As students reach the end of their course work staff will provide information and guidance on suitable progression routes which may include further training, volunteering, work experience, and supported, part-time, full-time or self-employment.

Students wishing to move into employment or further/higher education may be offered a beneficiary grant to help with financial needs for clothes for interviews, equipment, etc. Grant applications are based upon student needs and requirements.
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