Having been unemployed for quite some time, I was referred to Cyfle Cymru after expressing a passionate interest in working in the field of alcohol and drug dependency (based on my own experience of treatment and recovery).
I have completed three courses: food safety and hygiene for catering, positive attitudes and behaviours, and first aid awareness. All were interesting and informative, and gave a feeling of accomplishment when passed. There was even a formal presentation of the certificates which I thought was lovely and greatly appreciated – and, yes, there were cakes!
I have been on quite a few volunteer activities, mainly helping to clean-up local areas including woods, parks and beaches. It was good to socialise and have a chat with other members of the group, not to mention getting some much-needed exercise and fresh air. There was also a quiz and a volunteer award ceremony.
I have regular meetings with my peer mentor. We can chat about any concerns I have and if necessary, direct me to an organisation that can help. All the staff are amiable, helpful and approachable.
These activities, meeting and courses have collectively and effectively filled a blank canvas. Before I joined this project, I didn’t even have a current CV let alone anything current to include in it. I have recently finished some training to become a volunteer with Cyfle Cymru. This, together with everything else I have done has provided me with valuable experience and knowledge, and I feel that I am moving in the right direction to achieve my goal.
Cyfle Cymru is delivered by members of the DACW Consortium.
Cyfle Cymru is part of the Welsh Government’s Out of Work Service, supported by the European Social Fund.
