Our companions have benefited from a specially tailored course by North Herts College to enhance their careers and life opportunities.
The course was specifically designed by the college’s Hart Learning and Development service to address the needs of our companions looking to kickstart their careers and future opportunities after experiencing homelessness.
Delivered in our St Albans community over the summer, the course focused on both practical and personal skills – from writing a CV, preparing for interviews, using technology, customer service, self-presentation and building confidence.
Sessions were sensitive, empathetic, and flexible, recognising the individual, and often traumatising, journeys each person has taken to reach this point.
“Confidence building”
Hart Learning and Development’s Community Learner Engagement Officer, Chrissy Phelps said: “Hart Learning and Development were excited to team up with Emmaus St Albans in delivering a tailored two-day programme designed to equip companions with essential life, social, and employability skills.
“This initiative reflects our shared commitment to encourage opportunities and strengthen community partnerships, supporting individuals as they prepare for independent living.”
Companion Mark said: “I found the course really interesting, with some good advice and tips on employability skills as well as learning about British values of democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of others.”
Companion Fran said: “I really liked the confidence building and the course leader Kim’s approach – she was very bubbly and got people our of their shells. One companion was a little reluctant to open up but by the end of the course he was happy to contribute with a few ideas, thanks to Kim’s friendly encouragement.”
Based in Crosby Close, our charity provides a home, support, and work opportunities for up to 39 companions who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion.
We offer much more than just a bed for the night. People supported by Emmaus Hertfordshire receive a home, tailored support, and the opportunity to gain skills and work opportunities through our social enterprise of four shops and a house clearance service. This package of support helps people regain stability, rebuild their confidence, and work towards independence.
“No ordinary course”
Our Community Support Manager, Harley Scott said: “A huge thank you to the team from Hart Learning and Development for delivering a very worthwhile course which was tailored to the needs of the people we support.
“This was no ordinary course as it covered a host of areas that were of specific benefit to our companions, recognising their unique circumstances and equipping them with the tools they need to move forward, both in the work environment and on a personal level.
“The feedback from those who took part was very positive, with companions appreciating that it wasn’t just about teaching, but listening too, and ensuring each person had a clear pathway for progress going forward.”
The Hart course covered self-development topics such as confidence, emotional wellbeing, motivation, aspiration and social skills, as well as more practical ones including Maths and English, digital skills, qualification progress, career goals and employability skills.
The diverse course also covered healthy eating to encourage a healthy lifestyle and communication, an important skill, for both work and life in general.