Step Forward is a holistic, strengths-based, person-centred supported employment and volunteering service for individuals living with severe and enduring mental health experiences.
Hosted by Cumbria CVS and delivered in partnership with the NHS, Step Forward helps people in Carlisle, Eden, Allerdale, and Copeland to access meaningful volunteering and paid employment placements. We recognise the positive impact that work and volunteering can have on long-term mental health management and recovery, and we celebrate the value of lived experience in all placements.
How does it work?
- We use a 3-step model over 9 months to help individuals move forward into volunteering or paid employment.
- Our team provides tailored interventions, including support to access talk therapies, grief services, and confidence-building activities.
- Once in a placement, we offer 3 months of in-work or in-volunteering support to help clients retain and thrive in their roles.
- We engage with employers to help clients navigate workplace conversations and ensure a supportive environment.
Additional services include:
- Workplace Wellbeing Training
- Library of Lived Experience (LLE)
- Better Mental Health in the Workplace Toolkit
- Wellbeing Advice and Guidance
- Explainer Videos
- Holistic Employment Meetings
- Conflict Resolution and Mediation Services
- Trauma-Informed Awareness Training
- Decider Skills Training
- Promotion of services
- Social media tips and tricks
Who can access Step Forward?
- Adults living in Carlisle, Eden, Allerdale, or Copeland who have severe mental health experiences and want to move into volunteering or paid employment.
How to get started:
- You can self-refer, refer someone else, or contact us to learn more about our support and wider services.
- Contact our team by phone or email, or use our online referral form.
We are guided by you – every journey is unique, and our approach is always person-centred and responsive to your needs.