2021 ESF Case Study - Customized Training Services - Community Family Support Programme 2
The Community Family Support Programme (CFSP), delivered by Customized Training Services, is aimed at people aged 16 to 64 who are not in education, training, or working more than 16 hours per week, with personal barriers impacting on their ability to find or sustain employment, education or training.
The purpose of the project
The project supports participants to address health, social and economic needs which are preventing them from finding or succeeding in education, training or employment. Support is tailored to specific needs, strengthening support from family members, friends and other services. CFSP empowers participants to improve motivation, confidence and skills to make positive life changes.
The project is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014-2020 and the Department for the Economy.
Participant's story
In this case study a participant describes the support and guidance provided while she was on the programme:
"I left my job due to health reasons. I was recommended the Community Family Support Programme as I was interested in some short courses.
"I had thought when I was well enough to return to employment, I may want to change direction and perhaps work in a different field. I spotted the Level 1 in Youth Leadership and immediately enrolled as I was very interested.
Online learning
The participant continues:
At first, I was a bit apprehensive as, due to the Pandemic, the course would have to be online over Google Meet and not actually in the classroom. I had no experience of online learning. After being out of employment and study for so long I felt that the course was challenging yet I really enjoyed it. I hope to volunteer in a Youth setting in the future when the COVID-19 restrictions have eased to enable me to do my Level 2."
"I then went on to complete the Progression to Employment course. I wanted to do this to enable me to complete an up-to-date CV for me to use when I get back to employment. Again, I was provided with good guidance, advice and feedback.
During my course I received telephone support from the Family Mentor. She was very friendly, nice and was a good support over the first lockdown in 2020 when I was finding things difficult at home. She was there at the end of the phone if needed and provided me with useful resources to improve my mental health and activities to do with the family.
I feel that I have benefited greatly from my time on the programme and I hope to carry my new skills with me into the future.