This is a joint training project that uses peer learning to train people with mental health problems in catering and administration. Additional training will be offered in literacy and numeracy.
Which client group is the service aimed at?
All client groups across Leeds who have experienced mental health issues and are looking for extra support while gaining practical skills, confidence and training around catering and administration.
Purpose of the project
1). To enhance the employment prospects of the participants.
2). To develop a social firm that builds a unique selling point by incorporating authentic Asian and other styles of English, European and Caribbean cuisine.
3) .To increase community cohesion by having Asian and non Asian people working together.
Project Method
1). Catering
The service users are teaching each other about Asian, English and other types of cuisine under the supervision of our chef. This is taking place over three, 10 week terms over one year. Currently we are using the Hamara Centre in Beeston
2). Literacy, numeracy and ESOL training.
Each trainee who requests literacy, numeracy and ESOL training is assessed by Park Lane staff and where appropriate is offered this training alongside their catering training.
Milestones
1). Finding a venue for the project outside Stocks Hill Day Centre. Achieved.
2). Identifying eight service users to take part in project. Achieved
3). Finding a chef to deliver food hygiene certificate, agree a programme of study with participants and oversee peer learning. Achieved.
4). Agree a programme of learning with service users. Achieved
5). Begin working in kitchen. Achieved.
6). Identify crèche facilities: I am following this up with Park Lane.
Further sustainability of the project.
It was agreed that a business entrepreneur and chef are required to develop the project into a sustainable Social Firm. Once the project has established a proven track record as a training project, funding will be applied to develop it into a Social Firm: Target date February 2009.
The Melting Pot
