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, our service is funded by the North East & North Cumbria Integrated Care Board.
Who is it for? We support people in Carlisle, Eden, Allerdale, and Copeland who want to move forward into volunteering or paid employment, and who may benefit from extra help due to their mental health experiences.
How does it work? Over 9 months, we guide you through a 3-step model: Plan, Prepare, and Practice. We help you access meaningful services such as talk therapies, grief support, and confidence building. Once you start a work or volunteering placement, we provide 3 months of in-placement support to help you retain and thrive in your role.
- Employer engagement and support with workplace conversations
- 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
- Trauma-informed awareness training
- Decider skills training
- Promotion of services and social media tips
Why choose Step Forward? We celebrate the value of lived experience and aim to reduce stigma and misconceptions around mental health. Our approach is always guided by your individual needs and aspirations.
How to access: You can self-refer, refer someone else, or contact us to learn more. Visit our website for the online referral form, or reach out by phone or email.