Convergence funded Training available to Volunteers

SFA ESF convergence programs 

Through the Learning partnership company, Volunteer Cornwall became a delivery partner for 2 of the SFA ESF convergence programs. Those being Capacity building works (CBW) and Partnership works (PW).

Partnership works – We worked with those that are aged 19-65 that were looking to return to work, and volunteer.  

We had a target of supporting 150 people into structured volunteering, training, further education and training and into employment.

We supported 247 people. 126 received non accredited training, 101 received accredited training, 73 went onto to receive jobsearch activity or further learning, 36 went into employment, and 151 completed their structured volunteering hours. (5 hours a week over 13 weeks).

Capacity building works  - We worked with those aged 16+, employed for 8 hours a week or more. Volunteering or looking to volunteer.

Support included Information advice and guidance, accredited and non accredited training, and a volunteer placement.

The approach for this program is to up skill Cornwall’s workforce. We are currently supporting 328 employed volunteers, 198 have received non accredited training, 67 are in the process of completing accredited training, 150 have already completed their volunteering hours (50 hours).

CBW continues to run until Jun 2011.

A volunteer’s story

Volunteer S was suffering from acute agoraphobia and wanted to turn her life around. She approached us to ask about any support available. She was supported through the partnership works program. She started volunteering in a local children’s centre slowly when she could manage to do so and then started to attend some soft skill confidence building courses with us. She went on to complete several courses with us and took the decision to join main stream education.  She completed a massage and reflexology course and is now looking to become self employed.  She won the learner volunteer of the year award 2009. Volunteer S has significantly improved her life and that of her family. She no longer receives benefits and is starting her self employment.