Little steps can make a big difference!

Courses to help you improve your mental healthAutumn 2015

WellbeingExpression CreativityMotivation

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk2

ContentsWelcome 3

Choosing Your Course 4

Learn2b Autumn Term 5

5 Steps To Mental Wellbeing 6

Combination Days 6

Centre For Life 7

Course Listing 8 - 9

Learn2b Ambassadors 12

Learn2b Peer Support Group 12

From Learner To Tutor 12

Learn2b Community Partnerships 13

MBCT Course 13

Joining Forces 13

Courses For Business 14

Learner Forums 15

Get Involved 15

Last But Not Least... 15

Learn2b Learn2b is a county-wide, community based programme of informal learning providing opportunities to individuals that experience poor mental health, particularly mild to moderate disorders1. By working with mental health professionals, educators and learners, courses are designed to support the recovery process through learning - to build (or rebuild) confidence and develop coping strategies for everyday situations even if the symptoms are in the past.

Who Can Access The Courses?Anyone can self refer with or without a diagnosis. People with feelings of anxiety, stress, low mood and/or difficulty managing anger are encouraged to contact the team and we also welcome referrals from GP’s, wellbeing teams, carers and key-workers. Carers particularly are encouraged to attend the courses as a support network and to help take care of their own mental health and wellbeing.

Learn2b TutorsIt is important to know our Learn2b tutors and teaching staff are selected specifically because of their own lived experience with mental health illness. Each tutor is qualified/trained to teach in their specialist area and passionate about the ethos of Learn2b. The team offer support to each learner through a variety of teaching methods and create a safe and welcoming environment to learn as a group. All teaching staff have received mental health first aid training.

How To Enrol

Simply contact our dedicated Learn2b team who can talk you through the choice of courses available and help you select one that’s right for you.

By telephone: 01604 368023

By email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk

By online registration form at: www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/learn2b

1 Mild to moderate disorders such as depression, anxiety, stress.

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk3

How do you feel?No, not at all Some of the

TimeMost of the

TimeAll the Time

No, not at all

1. I feel optimistic about my future

2. I’ve been feeling useful

3. I’ve been feeling relaxed

4. I’ve been dealing with problems well

5. I’ve been able to make up my own mind

Signs of Anxiety No, not at allSome of the

TimeMost of the

Time

All the Time

All the Time

1. I feel anxious or nervous when leaving my home

2. I feel like I worry about almost everything

3. My head is constantly chatting/arguing with me

4. I feel fidgety, like I cannot settle or relax

5. I suffer from panic attacks, palpitations and/or shortness of breath

Signs of Depression No, not at allSome of the

Time

Most of the Time All the Time

Most of the Time All the Time

1. I find fault in things/people that used to make me happy

2. I feel sad

3. I have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

4. I have a poor appetite or I feel I overeat

5. I lack energy and feel life is a struggle

WelcomeThe mood guide below is an indicator of the level of course that may be suitable for you at this particular time in your life. Read through the statements and tick the box that feels most true to you. When you have completed the grid see how many times you have ticked the same colour and use this as a guide to help you choose courses that seem most suitable for you right now.

Remember this is only a guide and you are free to choose any course(s) within the brochure.

We Are Here To Support YouWe appreciate that when feeling anxious it can be difficult to make the first step into something new – if we can help by arranging somebody to meet you at the door or to call you before the course please let the team know. Confidentiality exists at all times.

Peace is a journey of a thousand miles and it must be taken one step at a time. Lyndon B Johnson

Free Information, Advice And GuidanceAre you looking for work or would you like to change direction in your career?

Adult Learning Service can refer you to qualified careers advisers who can offer support to help you take the next step in your working life. If you are over the age of 19 and living or working in Northamptonshire, contact our advisers today.

We can help you:

• Assess your skills and get new qualifications

• Explore your career ideas

• Develop your CV

• Improve your interview and presentation skills

• Progress in your current job

• Understand the local job market

• Find out about funding to support your learning

These courses are a gentle introduction to learning, sharing time with like-minded people to help reduce anxiety/stress, improve self-esteem and gain confidence. When you are ready, think about moving on to amber courses to continue building on these new skills.

Get set… if you have ticked mostly amber, depending on how you are feeling and your areas of interest, look at courses in wellbeing, creativity and expression to help build confidence and improve a sense of wellbeing. Continue with our motivation courses for a range of physical activities to encourage that ‘feel good’ factor.

Think about introductory courses to develop self-help methods which will give you the tools to change the way you feel/think/behave. Then as you gain confidence move on to the next level (green).

Go… if you have ticked mostly green – you’ve already gained some confidence in a social setting, have a better understanding of how you feel and what makes you happy but may need to take the next step to promote longer periods of ‘good times’.

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk4

Choosing Your Course All of our courses are designed to support recovery, build personal confidence, promote positive self-help and offer social interaction. Explore new ways of coping with everyday situations whether at home or at work; mix and match the types of courses so that you really benefit from the journey of discovery as an individual.

We understand about 'wobbles' and so when you need some top-up support Learn2b can offer exactly that.

The red courses are co-produced and delivered with partners and/or clinical mental health professionals together with learners with lived experience. They are designed to help with personal recovery and give individuals the opportunity to make and take decisions about their own lives – feel in control and make changes.

On your marks… The blue courses offer creative expression, arts and crafts, and physical activity sessions where there is an opportunity to talk about feelings and emotions in a safe environment without this being the main focus of the course.

For more information please email: communitylearning@northamptonshire.gov.uk phone: 01604 367119

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk5

Spotlight Courses Improve Mental Wellbeing Through Physical Activity

This course takes a gentle approach to sharing time with others through physical activity. It’s not about learning the skills of each activity but more about joining in, being active and having fun – all of which contribute to improved mental health. Don’t worry you don’t have to be ‘sporty’ as courses are for everyone and non-competitive.

We ran this course for the first time last term – read what some of the learners have to say:

‘One of the first things I liked was the friendly group and the staff'

‘Not a good day but forced myself to come as I knew it would do me good. I always feel empowered and happier after the session; I rely on Learn2b to help lighten things’

‘Was the right pace for me. Enjoyed being in a group as well as the activities – lot of laughing’

Connecting With Colour Through Flowers

Response to colour can be intensely emotive and flowers can be a catalyst for feelings that stimulate more than just the sense of sight and smell. Our new course this term looks at creating a floral display which helps improve wellbeing through creativity – using different palettes to reflect your individualism.

Improving Communication

How great would it be to feel comfortable chatting to and holding a conversation with anyone whether you know them as friends, acquaintances or even if they are a complete stranger? Many people who appear confident are in fact acting. Two fabulous new courses will look at using drama and the voice to help with your confidence, find that inner actor, and have some fun and laughter along the way.

Our person centred approach means it is all about you. Last term we focussed heavily on your feedback, with a new learner survey and case studies in addition to our regular learner forums held around the county. This proved a very positive experience on many levels and has helped us truly understand what Learn2b means to you and to Northamptonshire.

Your level of involvement is your choice at all times – we understand good and bad days – and we are here to support you. You can choose to sit quietly to absorb new knowledge and share time in the company of others or be actively involved in a session.

Learn2b is a perfect setting to meet new people, and to learn new life skills, which will help you progress through the programme of courses. When you are ready we can help guide you towards further learning and/or training opportunities to enable you to take your next step in living life to the full.

Learn2b Autumn TermOur courses and individual sessions are planned specifically to help aid your journey from poor mental health to improved wellbeing, and to meet your needs and interests.

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk6

5 Steps To Mental Wellbeing Everyday life situations affect us all; learning to cope with anxiety/stress and take a positive step forward is incredibly empowering. All Learn2b courses are an opportunity to take a little ‘time out’ in a safe, welcoming environment.

5 ways to wellbeing2 is a set of evidence based actions used to promote people’s wellbeing and Learn2b embed these into the programme.

Keep Learning – Learning something new or discovering an interest can help build confidence. Learn2b underpin everything with informal learning to aid personal development and self-management of your own mental health.

Connect – When we have not been well we can sometimes lose the art of holding conversations. Small, friendly and welcoming groups help re-establish ways of communicating – supporting each other along the way.

Be Active – Discover a physical activity that you enjoy and one that suits you. It’s a holistic approach to improved mental wellbeing that we are aiming for – not to test your fitness ability. Small steps can make a big difference.

Give – Do something nice… give back. Seeing yourself linked to giving back to family, friends or the wider community can be incredibly rewarding. Why not become a Learn2b Ambassador?

Take Notice – Be curious. Savour the moment. Learn to be aware of the world around you and your feelings with our Mindfulness courses.

Combination DaysCombination days offer a longer session where you can try your hand at a variety of subject areas and discover hidden talents.

As well as the arts and crafts this term you can come along and experience a variety of Tai Chi forms and a Chinese Tea Ceremony with our Improve Wellbeing through Tai Chi and 'Char'.

Please note: During the day, we will take a small social lunch break so please bring a drink, a light lunch and snacks to keep you going throughout the day. If you are unable to make the full session please join us when you can, we would rather see you for some of the time than not at all – please just let the team know when you enrol.

2 The Five Ways to Wellbeing were developed by NEF. Visit www.neweconomics.org/projects/entry/five-ways-to-well-being

I have enjoyed today, I have learnt to take time for myself and feel safe. Combination day

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk7

Centre For LifeLearn. Inspire. Focus. EmpowerLearn about your own potential, through self management, to achieve what you want in your life.

Be inspired by other’s self-told experience of personal recovery and how they have been able to focus on the more important aspects of their wellbeing. Be empowered to make the changes YOU want to make.

Anxiety Management Do you feel anxious for no apparent reason? Short term anxiety can actually be good for us. This two week course will look at using a self management technique called ‘Emotional Freedom Technique’. With physical tapping at specific points along our energy meridians, EFT "taps" into our energy system to balance it and keep it running smoothly.

Cognitive Behavioural TherapyCognitive behavioural therapy has been shown to be an effective way of treating a number of different mental health conditions. These sessions are designed to give you an introduction on why CBT is used as a talking therapy. Greater understanding can lead to more effective use as a coping strategy to turn overwhelming problems into smaller workable pieces and help break the vicious cycle of negativity. Improving the way you feel and helping to build your self esteem.

Neuro-Linguistic ProgrammingTrain the brain to store and access information differently. The results can be profound and have lasting change to thoughts, feelings and behaviours. This term we have included an advanced course for those that wish to build on the knowledge gained through previous sessions of Promoting Positive Thinking with NLP.

If you are interested in any of the following courses please email: (Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk) or call (01604 368023) the team to inform them of your interest and you will be notified of the dates as they are released:

• Managing your Anger

• Sleep Management

• Living with Eating Disorders

• The Transitions of Becoming a Carer

• Find Your Way around the Mental Health Network

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 8

I feel more positive and less worried about sleeping. Thank you. Wellbeing - Sleep

I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I feel I have re-awakened an interest in doing art and discovering new subjects and methods Creative - Art/Painting

I feel this course has been beneficial to my wellbeing. An excellent course! Motivation

A great boost to confidence laughing together with other people in the group. Expression - Laughter

* Refer back to page 3 to help guide you through the mood guide.

Course Code

Course TitleStart Date

Weeks Time Venue Mood Guide*

Wellbeing

AL2M03WA L2 Meditate For Beginners 21/09/15 2 10.30 - 12.30 Hardy Drive Community Room, Northampton

AL2M14WA L2 Meditate For Beginners 05/10/15 2 10.30 - 12.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2M30WA L2 Meditate For Beginners 02/11/15 2 10.30 - 12.30 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2M54WZ L2 Practice Meditation 30/11/15 3 10.30 - 12.30 Bouverie House, Hardingstone, Northampton

AL2O01WZ L2 Lift Your Mood With Essential Oils 21/09/15 2 13.30 - 15.30 Hardy Drive Community Room, Northampton

AL2O12WZ L2 Lift Your Mood With Essential Oils 05/10/15 2 13.30 - 15.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2O29WZ L2 Lift Your Mood With Essential Oils 02/11/15 2 13.30 - 15.30 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2F02WZ L2 Lift Your Mood - Know Your Food 21/09/15 2 10.00 - 13.00 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2F04WZ L2 Lift Your Mood - Know Your Food 25/09/15 2 10.00 - 13.00 Foxfield Pavillion Hall, Grange Park, Northampton

AL2F57WZ L2 Lift Your Mood - Know Your Food 04/12/15 2 10.00 - 13.00 Community Advice & Resource Centre, Daventry

AL2Z23WZ L2 Take More Notice With Mindfulness 17/10/15 1 10.00 - 13.00 Bouverie House, Hardingstone, Northampton

AL2Z36WZ L2 Take More Notice With Mindfulness 07/11/15 1 10.30 - 13.30 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2Z52WZ L2 Take More Notice With Mindfulness 28/11/15 1 10.30 - 13.30 Bouverie House, Hardingstone, Northampton

AL2B32WZ L2 Build Your Confidence 03/11/15 4 10.00 - 12.30 Relate, St Giles Street, Northampton

AL2B38WZ L2 Build Your Confidence 09/11/15 4 10.00 - 12.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2B46WZ L2 Build Your Confidence 13/11/15 4 13.30 - 16.00 Community Advice & Resource Centre, Daventry

AL2B34WZ L2 Use Your New Found Self Confidence 04/11/15 2 13.00 - 15.00 Bouverie House, Hardingstone, Northampton

AL2Z00WZ L2 Develop The Art of Mindfulness 29/09/15 8 12.30 - 14.00 Teamwork Trust, Corby

AL2Z01WZ L2 Develop The Art of Mindfulness 29/09/15 8 17.30 – 19.00 Teamwork Trust, Kettering

Expression

AL2H00WZ L2 Lift Your Mood With Laughter 30/09/15 1 19.00 – 21.00 Caroline Chisholm School, Wootton, Northampton

AL2Z01WZ L2 Lift Your Mood With Laughter 21/10/15 1 19.00 – 21.00 The Duston School, Duston, Northampton

AL2D43WZ L2 Express Yourself Through The Voice (Drama) 12/11/15 2 10.30 - 12.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2D50WZ L2 Connect With Drama 20/11/15 4 10.30 - 12.30 Foxfield Pavillion Hall, Grange Park, Northampton

AL2V17WZ L2 Sing For Fun 07/10/15 2 10.30 - 12.30 Hardy Drive Community Room, Northampton

AL2V49WZ L2 Sing For Fun 17/11/15 2 10.30 - 12.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2V65WZ L2 Connect With Others Through Festive Singing 16/12/15 1 19.00 - 21.00 Eden Close Community Room, Northampton

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk9

CourseCode

Course TitleStart Date

Weeks Time Venue Mood Guide

Creativity

AL2C06WZ L2 Relax And Sew Workshop 28/09/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Community Advice & Resource Centre, Daventry

AL2C24WZ L2 Relax And Sew Workshop 19/10/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2C31WZ L2 Relax And Sew Workshop 02/11/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 The Forum, New Library, Towcester

AL2C37WZ L2 Relax And Sew Workshop 07/11/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Leicester Street Community Room, Northampton

AL2X07WZ L2 Colour Your Mood With Flowers 29/09/15 1 10.30 - 12.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2X15WZ L2 Colour Your Mood With Flowers 06/10/15 1 10.30 - 12.30 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2X39WZ L2 Colour Your Mood With Flowers 09/11/15 4 13.30 - 15.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2R63WZ L2 Be Creative With Flowers 14/12/15 1 13.00 - 15.00 Corby Village Community Hall, Corby

AL2R64WZ L2 Be Creative With Flowers 15/12/15 1 13.00 - 15.00 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2A18WZ L2 Express Yourself Through Art 08/10/15 4 10.30 - 12.30 The Forum, New Library, Towcester

AL2A44WZ L2 Express Yourself Through Art 12/11/15 4 10.30 - 12.30 Bouverie House, Hardingstone, Northampton

AL2A45WZ L2 Express Yourself Through Art 12/11/15 4 13.30 - 15.30 Roade Bowls Club, Roade

AL2A20WZ L2 Paint Your World 10/10/15 4 10.30 - 12.30 Eastfield Close Community Room, Northampton

AL2C21WZ L2 Express Yourself With Felt 15/10/15 2 10.00 - 12.00 Leicester Street Community Room, Northampton

AL2C42WZ L2 Relax And Create 11/11/15 3 13.00 - 15.00 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2C47WZ L2 Relax And Create 13/11/15 3 10.00 - 12.00 Community Advice & Resource Centre, Daventry

AL2C62WZ L2 Refocus Your Mind - Lets Be Creative 03/12/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2C59WZ L2 Refocus Your Mind - Lets Be Creative 07/12/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Leicester Street Community Room, Northampton

AL2C60WZ L2 Refocus Your Mind - Let’s Be Creative 09/12/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2C56WZ L2 Refocus Your Mind - Lets Be Creative 12/12/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Community Advice & Resource Centre, Daventry

Motivation

AL2N05WZ L2 Meditate In Motion With Tai Chi 25/09/15 4 10.30 - 12.30 Daventry Community Centre, Daventry

AL2N08WZ L2 Meditate In Motion With Tai Chi 29/09/15 4 14.00 - 16.00 Danesholme Community Centre, Corby

AL2N25WZ L2 Meditate In Motion With Tai Chi 23/10/15 4 10.30 - 12.30 Greens Norton Community Centre

AL2N27WZ L2 Meditate In Motion With Tai Chi 27/10/15 4 14.00 - 16.00Wootton Community & Sport Centre, Wootton,

Northampton

AL2N51WZ L2 Meditate In Motion With Tai Chi 20/11/15 4 10.30 - 12.30Long Buckby Community Centre, Long Buckby,

Daventry

AL2Y28WZ L2 Improve Wellbeing Through Tai Chi and ‘Char’ 01/11/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2A10WZ L2 Walk And Chalk 01/10/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Community Advice & Resource Centre, Daventry

AL2A35WZ L2 Walk And Chalk 05/11/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Bouverie House, Hardingstone, Northampton

AL2P16WZ L2 Enjoy The Outdoors Through Cycling 07/10/15 1 12.30 - 14.30 Stanwick Lakes, Stanwick, East Northants

AL2Y13WZ L2 Manage Stress Through Seated Yoga 05/10/15 3 17.15 - 18.15 The Autumn Centre, Corby

AL2Y40WZ L2 Manage Stress Through Seated Yoga 09/11/15 3 13.00 - 14.30 Hardy Drive Community Room, Northampton

AL2Y53WZ L2 Manage Stress Through Seated Yoga 30/11/15 3 13.30 - 15.00 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2Y41WZ L2 Manage Stress Through Yoga 09/11/15 6 10.30 - 12.30 Hardy Drive Community Room, Northampton

AL2P19WZ L2 Improve Wellbeing With Physical Activity 09/10/15 6 10.30 - 12.30 Foxfield Pavillion Hall, Grange Park, Northampton

Centre for LIFE: Learn. Inspire. Focus. Empower

AL2E09WA L2 Improve Self Esteem - Intro To CBT 29/09/15 4 13.30 - 15.30 Relate, St Giles Street, Northampton

AL2E33WA L2 Improve Self Esteem - Intro To CBT 03/11/15 4 10.30 - 12.30 Victoria Centre, Wellingborough

AL2E55WZ L2 Understand CBT 02/12/15 1 10.30 - 12.30 Community Advice & Resource Centre, Daventry

AL2E61WZ L2 Understand CBT Workshop 10/12/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Corn Market Hall, Kettering

AL2K22WZ L2 Use Tapping For Anxiety Management 15/10/15 2 13.00 - 15.00 Leicester Street Community Room, Northampton

AL2L11WZ L2 Promote Positive Thinking With NLP 03/10/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Caroline Chisholm School, Wootton, Northampton

AL2L26WZ L2 Promote Positive Thinking With NLP 24/10/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 The Autumn Centre, Corby

AL2L48WZ L2 Promote Positive Thinking With NLP 14/11/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Community Advice & Resource Centre, Daventry

AL2L58WE L2 Improve Your NLP Skills (Progression) 05/12/15 1 10.30 - 14.30 Caroline Chisholm School, Wootton, Northampton

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk10

Wellbeing Our wellbeing courses are based around learning to relax, recover and re-build the self-confidence to change the way we think, feel, and behave. Take a step by step approach to develop new skills and coping strategies to establish achievable goals for the future.

Our wellbeing courses include learning and practising relaxation, meditation and mindfulness techniques to promote confidence when using a range of relaxation methods at home.

Learn strategies to improve the way you manage everyday situations and build your confidence and self esteem with Learn2 Build Your Confidence; or the progression course introduced this term called Learn2 Use Your New Found Self Confidence building on the goals and action plans achieved before; establish the links between what we eat (or what we don’t eat) and how it can impact upon feeling and mood with Learn2 Lift Your Mood – Know Your Food. The very popular Mindfulness sessions have been complemented this term with a full 8 week course – Learn2 Develop The Art Of Mindfulness to gain further knowledge of what’s going on inside and outside, moment by moment.

Expression When experiencing depression or anxiety it can be easy to withdraw from social interaction and group situations, sometimes doing something you wouldn’t normally do or having an experience you’ve never encountered before can be wonderful for your confidence. Expression courses play an essential role in recovery from poor mental health. This is an opportunity to simply be - to think, to chat, to share if you want to – to simply get your thoughts out in a way you feel is right for you.

Stepping out of your comfort zone can be worrying but when you do it with Learn2b you know you are in a safe environment and everyone is in the same boat – join in our light hearted approach to learning using drama – making connections through voice and character creation. Learn2 Express Yourself Through The Voice will help you, through fun activities, to sound confident even when your insides are turning somersaults. The vocal chords can be exercised further with our Learn2 Sing For Fun – sessions based around uplifting your mood, gaining confidence through song.

It's just so nice to be in a relaxed atmosphere and to be given help without feeling under pressure to get everything right. Wellbeing, Moody Food

Feel very happy that I have more confidence to change me - I feel that I have some tools to achieve my goals. Wellbeing - Confidence Building

Thank you, I have learnt new ways of writing and how to express myself in different ways. Expression - Writing

Creativity Being creative is an excellent way to focus the mind and leave the outside world behind for just a little while. We have a selection of arts and crafts courses each term, and remember you do not need to be creative to enjoy these, as no experience is required. Each session is delivered to suit all learners; our teaching staff are there to guide you and to help you find your hidden creativity.

Our ever popular courses are back using a variety of media, to help build social skills as well as the practical elements of the courses. Courses include painting, drawing, felt work, multi art activity sessions and sewing.

MotivationMotivation courses are planned to suit all learners and give you the opportunity to share time with others, through physical activities.

Yoga and Tai Chi both continue to be popular courses and from learner feedback Seated Yoga has had a very positive response. These courses are meaningful activities which can help reduce stress or improve your resilience in your everyday life.

L2 Enjoy The Outdoors Through Cycling - an opportunity to take in the sights of Stanwick Lakes whilst using some pedal power. There will be a small cost here towards the hire of the bikes.

There is a strong link between mental and physical wellbeing, any level of regular physical activity will help to fight off frustrations and ignite that ‘feel good factor’.

Further details about the content of the sessions are available on the course information sheet (CIS) which you will receive as part of your learner pack 3 weeks prior to your session starting. However if you need more information before enrolling please contact the team who will send you the CIS.

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk11

I was really engrossed in what I was doing and feel really proud of what I have done. Creative - Art/Painting

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk12

Learn2b Ambassadors If Learn2b has helped you in any way on your journey to recovery and you feel as passionately about the programme as we do, then now is the time to act.

Sign up for our Ambassadors Programme; we are actively looking for learners who would like to be involved in promoting Learn2b and raising awareness for mental health around the county.

You can help evaluate, review, and shape the future provision, and should you wish to, there will also be opportunities to help co-produce and co-deliver some of the courses.

Please contact Learn2b for details of the Ambassadors programme. It is a voluntary role, full training will be provided and support will be on-going.

Learn2b Peer Support GroupLearn2b courses are a great way to make new friends in a safe, social setting but what happens when your course comes to an end? If you have ever thought about how to keep those new friendships going or how you can continue to support each other – starting a support group may be the answer.

If you are interested in organising a Learn2b Peer Support Group in your area, please contact Learn2b for information and support to get your own group started. Full training will be provided.

From Learner To Tutor – A Personal Journey I have experienced depression and anxiety for over 20 years due to complex PTSD and can be very low. A couple of years ago I was looking for ways to cope with episodes of depression, which often left me isolated and alone for long periods of time almost to the extent of being agoraphobic due to my symptoms.

My support worker recommended a 6 week Learn2b course. I was already making any excuse not to go but something inside me told me it was the right thing to do.

The tutor and the support worker both had an air of calm and empathy surrounding them which made me feel a little easier. Although still anxious I realised that the course was run by people who had experienced mental health problems. The fact that the tutor could share experiences sets it apart from other courses that I had seen advertised.

The tutor ‘got the group straight away’ – her vocabulary, her empathy, humour and most of all her humanity – the course outcomes were explained and the tools learnt helped me fight through thoughts/feelings and fears.

When the course ended I kept in touch with the tutor and when ready asked if I could volunteer with her as I felt the course had really inspired me to give something back.

A mentoring programme within Learn2b allowed this to happen and I had action plans set, review meetings to monitor progress and after 12 months of being mentored and volunteering I was interviewed as part of a recruitment drive for teaching assistants.

My progress did not stop there as I took the basic teaching award (Award in Education and Training) and enrolled onto a CPCAD counselling course. Now as a trainee tutor I still like to support courses to help change other individuals’ lives.

I visualise my journey to wellbeing as a road that was once less travelled by myself, as I was always alone and sitting in my house. Now I feel that my journey is my car; sometimes I go through the country roads which are slow and winding and take ages to get through; sometimes I have to stop and park up in a layby, but right now I am on the motorway with a clear and fast track to happiness.

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk13

Learn2b Community PartnershipsIn addition to the free courses we run through our Learn2b brochure, we are also actively involved in working with external partners, charitable organisations and volunteer groups, providing courses on confidence building, sleep management and creative relaxation.

Working together and sharing good practice helps promote mental health awareness, encourages a consistent approach and increases funding possibilities. From experience, working together builds strong support networks for partner clients/residents and our learners, giving opportunities for signposting and actively opening progression routes for all.

If you would like to discuss partnership possibilities please contact the Learn2b team.

Learn2b are pleased to announce the successful partnership that has developed over the past few months. Teamwork aims to help any person who has short-term or enduring mental health needs, learning difficulties, physical disabilities and who would benefit from ‘vocational’ therapies, education, counselling and support to enable individuals to achieve and maintain their full potential.

Read on for the first of a number of courses which will run in collaboration between the two organisations throughout 2015/16. Enrolments will be taken in exactly the same way as our standard Learn2b courses and you will find details of the course on page 8 of this brochure. There will be a small charge for the handbook and CD that accompanies the course but please advise the team if you feel this may be a barrier to attending as financial help may be available.

Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy Course (8 weeks)MBCT combines traditional cognitive behavioural therapy with mindfulness and meditation. MBCT enables the participant to recognise and step out of automatic cognitive processes that can trigger stress, anxiety and depression. Learners recognise that certain thoughts and feelings are mentally destructive and are taught to allow the mind to move from automatic thought patterns to conscious emotional processing.

Scientific research supports the effectiveness of mindfulness for reducing depressive relapse, reducing cravings for substances people are addicted to, combating stress and being an effective tool for managing chronic pain and health conditions.

The MBCT programme takes place over 8 weeks. There is weekly course practice outside of the class with the use of CDs/MP3s for regular meditation and techniques to integrate mindfulness into daily routines.

Joining Forces The Police are often the only 24 hour available service that people can turn to when they are in trouble, have an emergency or have a problem they cannot deal with alone.

What is often forgotten is that under the uniform, our police officers and staff are also human beings, no different from anyone else in society, who often need support themselves.

Our partnership with Learn2b has allowed us to bring learning around mental health and wellbeing into the organisation and to bring staff from all over the Force together in a very supportive environment. As well as the teaching and contents of the sessions being excellent, the tutors have a skill in providing a secure, confidential environment which allows staff to feel confident in speaking about their own challenges and to allow mutually supportive relationships to develop.

PS Lorraine Brown, Northamptonshire Police

For further information on Teamwork and its services visit www.teamworktrust.co.uk

Each delegate receives a certificate and a handbook.

Trainers are accredited by MHFA England.

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk14

Courses For BusinessThe Centre for Mental Health (2010) reports the total cost of mental ill health impacts on lost economic output at £30.3bn per annum. 1 in 6 employees will be off work through mental health related conditions – stress, anxiety or depression at any one time, so we work with local businesses across the county to raise awareness and promote a positive attitude to mental health in the workplace.

Preventative ApproachOur courses are planned around the ethos of self help and positive outcomes – we can affect the personal journey of individuals and support people on ‘return to work’ programmes. Just as somebody would be entitled to attend a hospital appointment, we encourage employers to see the value of employees attending a Learn2b course without stigma or discrimination. For more information please email Sue Bennett, Co-ordinator on stbennett@northamptonshire.gov.uk

A variety of training courses are available for in-house delivery at extremely competitive rates. Call or email to discuss your requirements with our Train2b specialist on 01604 368023 or learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk.

Train2b A Mental Health First Aider This certificated course is taught over a period of two days or can be spread out over a number of sessions in our workplace premises – ideal for senior management.

• Spot the early signs of a mental health problem

• Feel confident helping someone experiencing a problem

• Provide help on a first aid basis

• Help prevent someone from hurting themselves or others

• Help stop a mental health problem from getting worse

• Help someone recover faster

• Guide someone towards the right support

• Reduce the stigma of mental health problems

Train2b More Aware Of Mental Health In The Workplace This course offers an introduction to the full 2 days MHFA Course and each delegate will feel confident by the end of the 3 hour session that they can

• Identify the discrimination surrounding mental health issues

• Define mental heath and some common mental health issues

• Apply basic mental health first aid

An ideal course for any member of staff.

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023 Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.uk15

Learner ForumsAre you interested in having a voice for the Learn2b programme of courses?

Would you like to have an input into shaping the next set of courses offered?

We hold regular ‘Learner Forums’ throughout the county and these have been successful in changing some of the provision offered and valuable contributions have been made from those that attended. You too can have the opportunity to have your say.

The next scheduled forums are listed below:

• Daventry – October • Corby – January • Northampton – March • Wellingborough – May • Kettering – July

You will receive an invitation nearer the time.

Last But Not Least...Please tell us if there is anything we can do to support you in your learning.

We will always respect your right to confidentiality but we hope that you will feel comfortable enough to disclose a disability or support needs, so we can help you where possible.

Learn2b TeamWe wish you the very best of luck with your courses, if you do have a query or concern or would like to share any feedback please feel free to contact us. The full complaints/compliments process can be found at: www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/contactus

Get Involved NHS Foundation Trust and Nene Commissioning are planning to develop a course designed to help people with poor mental health reduce or stop smoking. The stop smoking team want to work with people who have already taken the step to reduce or stop and who are interested in helping create the course.

If you feel that you could add some benefit from sharing your experience then please contact: Charlotte.goodwin@nhft.nhs.uk or: Wendyhansford@northants.nhs.uk for more information.

Telephone 0845 601 3116

How To Book On A CourseThere are a couple of options available to you:

Email: Learn2b@northamptonshire.gov.ukOne of the quickest ways to register for a course is to email and let us know the following details:

• Name and Address• Date of Birth• Contact Telephone Numbers

(also include a mobile number so that we can use our text messaging service to advise of any changes or confirmation of your course)

• Email Address• Course Name and Code as it is shown in the brochure• Any additional support needs (dyslexia support,

disabled access or equipment etc.)

We know how daunting attending sessions for the first time can be so if you feel we can help please tell us so we can arrange for one of our Learn2b team to meet you and help you settle in.

L2B Enrolment Line: 01604 368023Our enrolment team is available from 9am to 5pm daily Monday to Friday.

Visit the Adult Learning Service Websitewww.northamptonshire.gov.uk/learn2b where you will find the online enrolment form.

Minimum Numbers and CancellationsThe provision of these courses is dependent upon enrolments and attendance. From time to time it is necessary to close a course due to low attendance and if this is the case we will always contact you to advise and/or offer an alternative.

We understand that situations can change and some days are better than others – if you feel you cannot make a session please do let us know as this has an impact on the tutors’ planning and preparation of the course. Although we do not charge any fees for the provision, there are costs incurred that we have to cover.