Skills development PROGRAMME
Service User Perspective
Gavin Driscoll (Service User)
I think having a skills development programme at the centre is a good thing. At Christmas when they were asking people to get
involved in the play, I volunteered to video the play. I really enjoyed being part of the Christmas play and it made me feel
really proud to achieve something and I think it made relationships between staff and residents better.
I have gone along to Job Shop a number of times and it gave me the knowledge and confidence to complete a 2 week course to get
my CSCS card. I also used it to search for jobs using the internet. While living at T? Gobaith I have gone on loads of trips I
have been Go-Karting ,to Oakwood and walked the Taff trail. I think putting on activities is a good idea as it helps me
get out of my room and into the community.
Patrick McCahill (Service User and Volunteer of the “Bread of Heaven” Scheme)
I have been volunteering in the kitchen for a number of weeks and have really enjoyed learning new skills and working
alongside staff at T? Gobaith. I have found volunteering in the kitchen keeps me busy and Sue the catering manager has
put her trust in me and given me a number of new responsibilities for example one morning Sue put me in charge of breakfast
duty, I found this experience challenging but felt very proud of myself for doing a good job . This has made me feel more
motivated and confident about myself. I have also gained a certificate for COSHH and completed Overdose training, it feels
good when you get a certificate it makes you feel you have really achieved something.
Sue Allsop (Catering Manager)
As the Catering Manager at T? Gobaith I’m involved in recruiting and mentoring volunteers on the “Bread of
Heaven” scheme. The programme has been successful and beneficial to both staff and service users. Being a volunteer
and learning new skills, raises self confidence and improves social skills. All service users that participate in the
programme learn something new whether it is basic food preparation, working as part of a team or improving the ability
to communicate effectively. It is important volunteers also have the opportunity to achieve certificated training such
as COSHH or Basic Food and Hygiene. Volunteers have also pursed employment in the catering trade and wish to gain further
training.
Gareth Barnby (service user)
My key worker told me about the Christmas Play and encouraged me to get involved so I did and ended up playing prince
charming. At first I was really nervous and wasn’t sure I could go through with it, but after going to rehearsals
and becoming part of the team, I didn’t want to let anyone down and started having fun. Being in the play really
helped my confidence and has given me the ability to not care what people think. Starring in the play really helped me
build relationships with staff and other residents, although it was hard work it was an immense achievement.
