On 7th April, our next Life Course starts for six guests. Three of them have come to us through other Genesis Life Projects activities and three have been referred from other agencies in Bath.
‘This course has helped me deal with character traits that have held me back in life. I can now tackle issues and problems in a more constructive way. I’ve learnt a lot about looking after my health, mental and physical wellbeing……..Thank you.’ ~ previous Life Course participant
The guests will have a range of reasons as to why the Life Course is right for them, but the course is aimed at people in recovery from some form of addiction or those living with mental ill-health.
I asked Jill Sullivan, who will be facilitating the next Life Course, what hopeful outcomes she would want for our guests.
‘The honest answer is that everyone will be different, but my hope is that they finish the course with what they need to continue on their journey. For those with mental ill-health, I hope it will give them tools and coping mechanisms to help them through difficult times when they arise. For those in recovery, that they can sustain it and draw on the knowledge gained on the course when they are struggling.’
Guests will gather for 18 sessions over 10 weeks in our meeting room downstairs at the Gateway Centre. It is important that the group size is small and that it’s delivered in a safe atmosphere where everyone is respected.
‘I made new friends on the course. It has given me coping techniques. I felt loved and less hopeless.’ ~ previous Life Course participant
The course consists of 4 main areas:
- Self-care – Valuing and looking after ourselves, mind, body, spirit
- Mind matters – Being mentally healthy
- Healthy relationships – Being emotionally and relationally healthy
- Life management – Being practically healthy
We include two socials which the group decide on together. This could be a shared meal, a canal walk or a craft session.
‘The Life Course has helped me right now as I have some very difficult things going on. Jill and Lorraine have helped me to use the course to focus on things I find difficult. I met some lovely people.’ ~ previous Life Course participant
After the course, we can continue to support people with one-to-ones to help them transition on to the next stage of their recovery journey. This may include providing references for volunteering or employment opportunities.
‘I’ve been experiencing poor health since mid-October and both Lorraine and Jill have been so kind and helpful which has enabled me to attend all the sessions. And, of course, have helped me recognise areas where I’m lacking. I am very grateful for this course.’ ~ previous Life Course participant
As you can see from the guest’s feedback we’ve included, the course has had a big impact on people who attend. We are hugely grateful to be able to offer this course and are looking forward to journeying with the next group in a few weeks time.
