Independent living training

This training programme, otherwise known as 'The Great Escape', aims to prepare clients for independent living and to provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to have control over their own lives.

The programme focuses on three main areas:

  • Financial skills - dealing with bills, managing money, budgeting, managing debt
  • Social skills/personal development - assertiveness, dealing with neighbours, managing change, healthy eating, looking after yourself, employment issues
  • Tenancy skills - benefits, furnishing, tenancy issues, viewing

We have also run sessions on:

  • Interview skills
  • Communication
  • Knowing your rights
  • Basic DIY
  • Health awareness
  • Cooking on a budget

We use teaching tools like brainstorming, case studies, small group work and quizzes to reinforce learning, which may be tailored to particular needs. We work in groups of 3 - 10 people, and provide extra help if needed to those with English as a second language, who need support with literacy, or who are less confident in a group setting. Much of our work is about encouraging and motivating our clients - and to bring an element of fun.

Future plans

Independent living training has great potential to help people make even more positive changes in their lives. We are working on a more holistic approach which focuses on other areas of social and personal development, like dealing with conflict; making decisions; communication; and health awareness - including sexual health.