solent recovery college – a shared journey
DESCRIPTION
Whether you use mental health services in Portsmouth, support someone who does, or work within them, we offer you the opportunity to learn about recovery and feel inspired to take control of your life.TRANSCRIPT
Solent RecoveryCollege A Shared Journey
Updated Jan 15
Solent Recovery College A Shared Journey
WelcomeThe Solent Recovery College (SRC) offers a fresh way of working that draws on the experiences and skills of people who have used mental health services and the staff who work in them.
Whether you use mental health services in Portsmouth, support someone who does, or work within them, we offer you the opportunity to learn about recovery and feel inspired to take control of your life.
We focus on education and have developed a range of programmes and short sessions that will enable you to manage your own recovery or support someone else with their recovery journey.
We believe that education offers new hope and the opportunity for you to learn more about recovery, coping skills, practical skills, living with on-going symptoms and how to get the best from the mental health services.
Our courses aren’t therapy. They can help you become an expert in managing your own life – and be at the centre of your own recovery journey.
We aim to: • Enable you to take control of your life • Use education as a route to recovery • Improve your experience of mental health services • Share your journey • Inspire you to live a life that’s worth living – with or without on-going symptoms
Programmes and sessionsWe have divided our sessions and programmes into three core themes:
Understanding recovery
Developing your knowledge and skills
Moving forward
All sessions and programmes include a taught component. In addition you will be given the time to reflect, discuss and carry out individual work. Sessions last between 60 minutes to half a day. Programmes consist of a series of sessions over a number of weeks. Please note that in some instances we ask you attend all the sessions in a programme and/or have attended the session that introduces it.
If you have any questions about any of these sessions and programmes please contact the Solent Recovery College team at Highbury College on (023) 9238 3131 or email [email protected]
Introduction – What is recovery?
Progression 1 – Understanding recovery
Progression 3 – Moving forward
Progression 2 – Developing knowledge and skills
Supporting someone else’s recovery First steps to recovery – an introduction to the 8-part programme
Understanding mental health issues and services
Understanding depressionUnderstanding psychosis and
schizophrenia – an introduction to the 5-part programme
Understanding personality disorder
Understanding self harm Understanding obsessive compulsive disorder
Skills for life – an introduction to the 12-part programme
Understanding bipolar disorder Understanding mindfulness
Goal setting for the future Preparing for work Developing a peer support group Updating your wellness plan
Maintaining your tenancy Managing your money First Steps to recovery – 8-part programme
Recovery and activity – 4-part programme
Substance misuse and its impact on mental health
Skills for life – coping with intense emotions –12-part programme
Developing mindfulness – 5-part programme
Being at the centre of your recovery – making the most of the Care
Programme Approach
Knowing your rights – an introduction to mental health law
Developing a wellness plan – 2-part programme Coping in a crisis Writing your recovery narrative
– 3-part programme
Living with psychosis and schizophrenia – 5-part programme
Exploring Spirituality and mental wellbeing – 2-part programme
Living with bipolar disorder – 3-part programme
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)What is the Solent Recovery College?The Solent Recovery College offers a range of programmes and short sessions for people with mental health problems, as well as their family, friends and carers.
SRC is different because we focus on education to promote hope, control and opportunity for people with mental illness.
SRC has been developed as an exciting new partnership between Solent NHS Trust, Highbury College and the Richmond Fellowship (peer workers).
The programmes and sessions have been designed by professionals and people who have lived with mental illness, and draw on the experience and expertise of both. Working together we can help you to determine your own recovery journey.
Who can attend?Solent Recovery College is open to people who use mental health services in Portsmouth. Our programmes are also for friends and supporters of those who use services, and staff within the partnership organisations. Everyone who enrols with the Solent Recovery College will be thought of as a ‘student’ – no-one is labelled as a service-user or ‘professional’.
Do I need to be referred by my mental health team?No. You do not need to be referred. As a student, you simply enrol and discuss the courses which best suit you. Your attendance is not noted or recorded by the mental health service.
I care for someone who uses mental health services – can I enrol?Yes of course. We aim to increase awareness of recovery and mental health issues – you are an important part of this. You can attend with the person you support, or in your own right.
Do I need any qualifications to attend Solent Recovery College?No. We appreciate that many of our students will have missed out on education, and may have been unhappy at school or college. Our courses range from brief, introductory ‘taster’ sessions to programmes running over a few weeks. There are no formal entry requirements for any of our courses.
What if I need some support with studying, once the programme has begun?Solent Recovery College tutors will be happy to provide advice and support if students feel they need additional help. Highbury College can provide learning support if that is needed.
Will I need to pay for the session or programme?All our programmes are free for people who work, use or care for someone who uses Solent NHS Trust mental health services. Anyone who does not match these criteria is welcome to join one of our programmes, but will need to pay a small fee. Contact the Solent Recovery College team at Highbury College on (023) 9238 3131 or email [email protected]
Where will I learn and who will teach me?All courses take place at Highbury City of Portsmouth Centre on Winston Churchill Avenue. All courses are delivered by 2 trainers – one who has expertise through working in mental health services and one who has expertise through having experienced mental health issues themselves. Having both forms of knowledge is a really important principle of Solent Recovery College. On the very rare occasion that both trainers are not able to attend, we may need to rearrange a course.
Solent Recovery College A Shared Journey
I don’t want to go back to school or college – is that what this is?Our programmes aren’t traditional college or school subjects, like Maths and English. We aren’t providing therapy either. And don’t worry, it won’t be like school. You won’t find yourself sitting in a classroom listening to a teacher talk while you try to take notes. Instead, you will have opportunities to discuss subjects that interest you, learn at your own pace and develop your own Personal Learning Plan.
What happens if I don’t attend the whole of a programme?Don’t worry. We understand that you may become unwell during a programme or be unable to attend for other reasons. The Solent Recovery College team will discuss with you any problems you might have in attending, although we do ask that you do your best to attend. In some circumstances we may not be able to hold places open for people who repeatedly fail to attend any or all sessions in a programme.
What is a Personal Learning Plan?We want to inspire you to realise your potential and make the most of your opportunities. We offer individual and group tutorials to discuss your personal goals, both short and long term, and look at your strengths and what you would like to improve. This will help you to think about what you want to do and what skills you would like to develop. We will then support you to achieve these goals.
How many other students will be on the programme with me?Most class sizes are kept small so that you have the best chance of learning and can develop your knowledge and understanding of moving beyond mental illness in a supportive environment.
Do I have to take any tests or exams at Solent Recovery College?No. There are no exams or tests.
I have some physical mobility problems – can I come to the Solent Recovery College?Yes. All Highbury College’s buildings are fully compliant with the Equality Act. Both Highbury Campus and Highbury City of Portsmouth Centre have the latest features for students with disabilities affecting their mobility. Facilities include easy-to-use entrances and lifts, adjustable desks and accessible computers with assistive software.
Can I bring a supporter or family member with me?Yes. We are happy for students to attend with a carer, supporter or staff member from their team. Please note that your supporter must register, enrol and participate as a student during the programme or session.
Will my learning be useful beyond my recovery? Students attending any of our programmes and achieving 10 hours or more in sessions will be entitled to learning credits. These credits can be a stepping stone to further study or vocational training.
What happens once I have finished my programme?One of our aims is to give you the time and space to decide your next step – and the confidence to take it. It might be that you would like to move on to another programme at college, or look for work. Whatever your life goal, we are here to help you achieve it.
Where can I find out more information?For further information please contact the Solent Recovery College team at Highbury College on (023) 9238 3131 or email [email protected]
Solent Recovery College A Shared Journey
Highbury CollegeAll sessions and programmes will be delivered at Highbury College. Once you enrol on a programme with the Solent Recovery College you will become a student at one of the top general further education colleges in England.
Highbury’s mission is ‘to enable all our students to succeed’. The College has an outstanding track record of working with students with mental health problems. Its Five Ways to Wellbeing initiative won a national award in 2012. Another of its programmes, developed specifically for young people with mental health problems, was launched as a national programme by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE).
Benefits of being at Highbury College
The benefits of being a student at Highbury include:
• Access to a College Library Service with books, magazines, newspapers, Apple Macs, PCs, quiet study areas and wireless technology.
• Use of MyCourse, a virtual learning environment providing anytime, anyplace learning.
• Discounted membership to the College’s Sports Centre where you can enjoy a wide range of facilities including gym, fitness classes and sport.
• Hair & Beauty salons offering competitively priced treatments.
• Two Ofsted registered nurseries offering care for babies and children up to four years of age.
• Refectories offering a good range of refreshments including hot meals, snacks, drinks and healthy eating options.
College Life
There are many clubs and societies you could join including a sports academy, theatre company and a student newspaper. Other options include volunteering, charity work, working on local radio or entering a talent show. You could even start you own business with help from the College’s enterprise society.
Student Union
As a student at Highbury you will become a member of the Student Union (SU). SU membership gives you discounts in stores and leisure outlets, free activities and trips as well as cheaper travel on trains and buses.
For further information about Highbury College visit www.highbury.ac.uk
Supporting someone else’s recoveryAre you supporting someone through their experience of a mental health problem? This session will help you understand what may be happening, both for you and the individual you are supporting. Where are they in their recovery? What are the key ways for you to effectively support them? The session addresses these and other questions and will also help you look after your own wellbeing.
First steps to recovery – an introductionAn introductory session for the First steps to recovery programme. The session outlines why the key skills and knowledge addressed in the full programme are important in gaining a sense of control over commonly experienced difficulties.
Attendance at this session is essential before enrolling on the 8-part programme.
Understanding mental health issues and servicesAn overview of mental illness. Explore the challenges people with mental ill health encounter. Learn more about the services and resources available to you to support your recovery or your role in supporting others.
Understanding depressionThis session is designed for anyone who has experienced depression or is working with or caring for someone who has. It covers the myths and realities, possible treatments and support available. You will also look at practical methods to help overcome or minimise the effects of depression, either for you or for those whose recovery you support.
Understanding psychosis and schizophreniaA short session that introduces the 5-part Living with psychosis and schizophrenia programme. The session will be useful for anyone who has experienced psychosis or schizophrenia or works with or cares for someone who has. The session addresses the myths and realities, possible treatments and support available and outlines the content of the full programme.
Attendance at this session is required before enrolling on the 5-part programme.
Progression 1 – Understanding recoveryDevelop your understanding of frequently discussed topics by attending our short, introductory sessions. This is a good place to start for anyone who is thinking about joining the Solent Recovery College. Attendance at some of these sessions is recommended before you enrol on a longer programme.
Introduction – What is recovery?This session provides an ideal stepping stone for further recovery programmes in the college and introduces the concept of recovery in mental health. The session gives you an opportunity to explore your own attitudes and beliefs about recovery and looks at the major factors for achieving or supporting recovery in mental health.
Solent Recovery College A Shared Journey
Understanding personality disorderThis short session will be beneficial for anyone who has experience of personality disorder or is working with or caring for someone who has. The session looks at the facts and realities, possible treatments and support available. The session also provides practical strategies to help overcome or minimise the effects of personality disorder, either for you or for those whose recovery you support.
Understanding self harmSelf harm is something that many people find difficult to understand and there are many myths about it. This session explores the facts and fictions of self harm, possible treatments and support available. By attending this session you can increase your ability to manage in different ways and/or support someone you care about.
Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)This session is for anyone who has experienced OCD or anyone that is working with or caring for someone that has. The session addresses the facts and realities, possible treatments and support available and introduces practical methods to help overcome or minimise the effects of OCD.
Understanding bipolar disorderThis introductory session is for anyone who has experienced bipolar or who is working with or caring for someone who has. You will learn about the myths and realities of bipolar, the possible treatments and support that are available and outlines the full programme which you may wish to progress on to.
Attendance at the introductory session is required before enrolling on the 3 part programme.
Skills for life – an introductionA short introduction to the 12-part Skills for life programme. This session has been designed for anyone who has overwhelming difficulty coping with rapid changes in emotion – as distinct from longer periods of high and low mood. The session introduces the full programme, which aims to develop your ability to identify and manage emotions, get on with others and tolerate distress. These are key skills that can enable you to manage your life more easily.
Attendance at this session is required before enrolling on the 12-part programme.
Understanding mindfulnessA short session that introduces the 5-part Mindfulness programme that will help you explore the practice of mindfulness. The session looks at the mind-body approach that involves paying attention to thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations in a way that increases awareness and compassion in order to manage difficult experiences and make wise choices.
Attendance at this session is essential before enrolling on the 5-part programme.
Maintaining your tenancyThe responsibilities involved in managing a home can seem daunting. This session helps you to develop your knowledge and practical skills to manage your tenancy. From tips on getting the best deal for your gas and electricity to understanding your rights as a tenant or home owner, the session can help you feel more confident and secure in your accommodation.
Managing your moneyIf you have ever felt stressed by bills and money matters then this is the session for you. Through interactive exercises and discussion, you will learn about the financial choices that may be available, develop an awareness of debt implications and gain skills in completing a budget plan.
Recovery and activityWe all know that activity is good for the body – but it can be important for your mental health too. This 4-part programme will help you to develop an active lifestyle to improve your wellbeing. The sessions will include trying creative and practical activities. Attendance at all 4 sessions is recommended.
First steps to recoveryThis 8-part programme includes all the building blocks to improved mental health. Sessions include; The Impact of Mental Health Issues and Medication Issues; Sleep Better; Stress Less; Eat Well, Stay Well, Effective Communication; Problem Solving; Balanced Lifestyle; Having an Intimate Relationship. Build on your knowledge and develop new skills.
Please note that attendance at the ‘First Steps to Recovery – an introduction’ is essential before attending this programme.
Substance misuse and its impact on Mental HealthThis session examines the nature of the link between substance use and mental health. The session will help you to recognise when substance use becomes unhelpful and identifies services and information resources available to you to support your recovery or your role in supporting others.
Skills for life – coping with intense emotionsThe 12-part Skills for life programme will help you understand more about emotions (yours and other peoples) in order to promote emotional balance. The programme explores how you can increase your ability to tolerate difficult emotions and manage within relationships – especially when you cannot just ‘fix’ the situation. You will develop skills and knowledge aimed at changing behavioural, emotional and thinking patterns that are associated with problems in daily life and relationships, especially those that cause us much distress and misery. The programme will help you to work towards a better quality of life, making life worth living.
Attendance at the introductory ‘Skills for life’ session is essential, so that you can decide if the programme is right for you.
Developing mindfulnessMindfulness is an increasingly popular strategy in creating wellbeing and can be a key tool in recovery. This 5-part programme of practical mindfulness exercises will help you to explore and develop your independent use of this approach.
Attendance at the introductory ‘Understanding mindfulness’ session is essential, so that you can decide if this is the right programme for you.
Progression 2 – Developing your knowledge and skillsThis series of more focused sessions and programmes provides you with the tools and skills to increase your understanding of recovery and create new opportunities to self-manage your experiences or support someone else.
(Please note that for two or more part programmes, a commitment to enrol for the whole programme is required.)
Solent Recovery College A Shared Journey
Being at the centre of your recovery – making the most of the Care Programme ApproachA 2-part programme exploring how to ensure that you – the person accessing the mental health service – are central in your recovery. The programme includes an introduction to the Care Programme Approach process and explores ways to ensure there is shared decision making and a focus on your individual strengths. Programme content includes an introduction to recovery outcome measures and writing an advanced statement.
The ‘Understanding more about recovery’ session is a good introduction for this programme.
Knowing your rights – an introduction to mental health lawThis session provide an overview of the most common aspects of the Mental Health Act (1983/2007) and the Mental Capacity Act (2005) and looks at how the two Acts can work together. The session looks at how the Acts are used in practice to help and protect people who may be experiencing mental health difficulties and provides important information for the patient or nearest relative about their rights.
Developing a wellness planThrough understanding and recognising changes that take place as you start to feel unwell, it becomes easier to know what you or others around you can do to regain control and wellbeing. This 2-part programme provides you with an opportunity to develop your own Early Warning Signs plan.
Coping in a crisisThis session can help make sense of a crisis experience. Through exploring personal resource and treatment preferences you will be supported to develop a plan to prepare you and inform others about how they can best support you in future times of distress.
Writing your recovery narrativeRecovery narratives are individual personal stories of recovery, showing the movement towards making sense of your personal experiences. This 3-part programme gives you the opportunity to learn from and develop your own recovery narrative. The programme will teach you the principles behind creating your own recovery narrative, and help you find imaginative ways that suit you to tell your story – and share your learning journey if you wish.
Living with psychosis and schizophreniaThis is a 5-part programme which builds on your understanding of psychosis and schizophrenia. The programme looks at the possible causes, and provides an insight into how individuals and families are affected and can develop strategies to live with this illness.
Attendance at the introductory ‘Understanding psychosis and schizophrenia’ session is essential, so that you can decide if this is the right programme for you.
Living with Bi-polar disorderThis is a 3-part programme which builds on your understanding of bipolar disorder. The programme looks at the possible causes, and provides an insight into how individuals and families are affected and can develop strategies to live with this illness.
Attendance at the ‘understanding bipolar disorder’ is essential so that you can decide if this is the right programme for you.
Exploring spirituality and mental wellbeingThis 2-part programme covers ‘mental wellbeing’ and ‘spirituality’ and explores how the two are related. The session includes plenty of opportunity for discussion with time and space to explore how to meet your own spiritual needs and, in turn, how this can support your recovery, or your role in supporting others.
Goal setting for the futureThis session draws upon work you have completed in other programmes. The session provides an opportunity for you to think about the future, your goals and how you might achieve them. You will have the time and space to explore what a life worth living might look like for you – and begin to plan for it.
Preparing for workEssential information and support if you are considering a return to work. You will look at how to identify and search for jobs, how to apply, preparing for interviews, and whether to disclose your health history. You can also learn about local specialist services who can support you back to work, from first steps to your first day – and beyond.
Developing a peer support groupWould you like to set up your own peer-led support group? This session provides practical advice and guidance on the factors that ensure a successful group, such as safety, good communication and the practicalities of planning and maintaining an on-going meeting or forum.
Updating your wellness planDrawing on work you have completed in other programmes, this session reviews your wellness plan. You could update it, identify and explore new activities and opportunities available to you and seek support from a wider range of people or services. This could be in preparation for moving beyond mental health services, or changing the way you receive support from them.
Please note that attendance at the ‘Developing a wellness plan’ and ‘Coping in a crisis’ sessions is required before joining this session.
Progression 3 – Moving forwardThese sessions build on your learning from previous sessions and programmes and focus on how you can take control of your life – and enjoy a life that’s worth living!
Solent Recovery College A Shared Journey
It was good to hear your (Peer worker) story – good and bad bits – it’s difficult to make sense of it myself, it helped hearing someone else say it
Our students say…
Doing SRC courses has definitely prevented me going into crisis and has kept me focussed
I’m able to leave the house more and be around other people. Starting another course and volunteering work
It’s the first time I’ve helped myself other than getting tablets from the doctor – it’s good to be in controlFeeling comfortable as a student not a
patient, was central to my success
My daughter is just diagnosed – I’m glad I can come and learn how to support her
I have really enjoyed the SRC. It is so much better to have sessions with people that have lots in common. I am glad that I have had a chance to talk things through and make plans for other courses that will be useful for me, as I was a bit confused about which ones would be best
Find out more about the Solent Recovery College, and hear from our students by visiting www.highbury.ac.uk/SRC
I’m interested – what next?
If you are interested in any of our programmes and sessions or would like to know more about how you can become an expert in your own recovery you can contact the Solent Recovery College team on (023) 9238 3131 or email [email protected]
If you prefer, you can fill out the Expression of Interest form below and send it FREEPOST to:
Highbury College, (Information Centre), FREEPOST (PT332), Portsmouth, PO6 2BR
Your interest or attendance is not noted or recorded by the mental health service.
Solent Recovery College – Expression of Interest
Courses I am interested in ............................................................................................................................................................................................
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First name .......................................................................................... Surname ..............................................................................................................
Date of birth
Address .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
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Telephone ...............................................................................................Mobile ..............................................................................................................
D D M M Y Y Y Y
Solent Recovery College A Shared Journey
About usSolent Recovery College has been developed as a partnership between Solent NHS Trust, the Richmond Fellowship and Highbury College.
Solent NHS Trust – working in partnership to deliver better health and local careThe integrated workforce of Portsmouth City Council and Solent NHS Trust are the main provider of mental health services for people living in Portsmouth. The Trust puts individuals and their families at the heart of our decision making. By working in partnership with other organisations, our service users benefit from local, integrated community solutions that provide the highest quality care to our patients.
Tel (023) 8060 8900Email [email protected] www.solent.nhs.uk
Richmond Fellowship – Making Recovery RealityRichmond Fellowship (RF) is one of the largest specialist voluntary sector providers of mental health care in England, and have pioneered a belief that recovery is a journey, and that the achievement of the best possible quality of life for each individual lies at the heart of this journey. In Portsmouth, RF has a ‘Support and Recovery’ service, with Community Link Workers and Peer Support Workers, who work on a one-to-one basis to support people to achieve their goals and aspirations. RF provides person-centred and flexible support, providing individuals with opportunities to establish social and support networks, develop interests and reduce isolation.
Tel (023) 9267 9714Email portsmouths&[email protected] www.richmondfellowship.org.uk
Highbury College – enabling all our students to succeedHighbury College’s vocational and academic programmes range from first-step courses to university level foundation degrees, A Levels and education in the community. The College has an outstanding track record of working with students with mental health problems and its Five Ways to Wellbeing initiative won a national award in 2012.
Tel (023) 9238 3131Email [email protected] www.highbury.ac.uk
We would like to thank The Dorset Wellbeing and Recovery partnership for the guidance they have generously shared.
This publication is available in Braille, audio and large print. To request a copy, call (023) 9238 3131 or email [email protected] specifying which format you require.
Solent Recovery CollegeHighbury City of Portsmouth CentreWinston Churchill AvenuePortsmouthPO1 2DH
(023) 9238 [email protected]/solentrecoverycollege