PCH residents were inspired to step out of their comfort zone during a Confidence and Motivation workshop organised by Plymouth Community Homes in partnership with Active Plus.
“A bit apprehensive at first, but slowly better throughout the week.’
‘Trying to solve problems and taking time to correct our mistakes, loved the activities, it was brilliant to solve the problems.’
‘I learnt how to give instructions and be assertive.’
Those were just some of the comments made by PCH residents as individual presentations were made by each member of the course as they showcased their newfound confidence and public speaking abilities.
Rewind a couple of weeks and it was a very different story as Pete and Rob, Lead Instructors for Active Plus, explain: “At the beginning of the course, all the team members were understandably apprehensive about what to expect. We’ve worked with them over the course to empower everyone here to grow in confidence and resilience.
“We use teambuilding and problem-solving activities to help people look at challenges differently, regain their confidence and regenerate a sense of purpose and belonging.
“If I had told them at the start, that by the end of the course they would be standing up in front of a group of people talk about what they’ve learned and how they’re going to apply it to their own lives, they’d have laughed me out of the room.
“Everyone involved has graduated the course with flying colours, and we’d like to thank all our participants who have become firm friends. It was nice to hear the group talk about their time on the course, and this puts a little bit of gentle pressure on them to excel.”
Residents are planning to use their new-found confidence going forward, with some looking to get into work, while for others it’s given them the chance to get out and meet new people and make friends.
Resident Stacey Winn, who attended each of the days said: “It’s really helped me and boosted my confidence. I’m not a big fan of speaking in front of people and each of the exercises that we carried out helped us to work as a team and build positive relationships with each other in order to deliver the final results. We’ve all really enjoyed it and become quite close as a group so I think we will keep in touch!”
Ashleigh Knowles, PCH’s Resident Learning Co-ordinator who helped deliver the course, said: “It has been an absolute joy delivering the course. It’s always great to work with Active Plus and see the difference made to attendees. The first week everyone was a bit nervous and quiet but each week their confidence grew. They shared their interests, worked well together, and had personal achievements.”
Active Plus is a Community Interest Company that uses the skills, experience and expertise of injured and retired military veterans to deliver unique programmes that build confidence, improve motivation, generate a sense of belonging and self worth; helping people to unlock and fulfil their potential.
PCH offers a variety of free courses to support and upskill residents, including training in first aid, computer skills and cookery. To be on the mailing list for the latest courses, visit our Learn For Free page on our website.
