Learning for living

A unique qualification is now available to unpaid carers in Shropshire, thanks to Shropshire County Council’s County Training.

‘Learning for Living’, a City & Guilds accredited programme provides those working as unpaid carers with the chance to develop existing and new skills opening up opportunities for further education, training, employment and leisure.

Currently there are over one-and-a-half million unpaid carers in the UK. Some 30,000 of these are based in Shropshire (2001 census) and research shows that training and employment is important to these individuals. Often unpaid carers don’t have the time to focus on developing their skills further, due to the commitment a full-time caring role brings.

‘Learning for Living’ aims to overcome such issues in providing an online resource along with the opportunity to achieve the ‘Certificate in the Personal Development and Learning for Unpaid Carers’ qualification. The programme strives to build the confidence of the carer, which can be lost through time away from a paid job.

County Training is the only organisation in Shropshire providing this nationally recognised qualification, which is specifically designed for carers by carers. Five Shropshire women have already successfully completed the pilot scheme for the delivery of ‘Learning for Living’.

Pauline Cheney, from Shrewsbury, has recently completed the qualification and truly believes the programme has been of great benefit to her. She said: "The whole process was fantastic. I have developed friendships with four ladies who can all relate to my experiences and for this reason alone I would recommend the course to others alike. It has also provided me with the drive to do new things. I would relish the chance to do another course to progress from this one with County Training should the opportunity ever arise!”

Councillor Barbara Craig, Cabinet member for community services, said: "It is vital that we recognised the needs of those who voluntarily carry out a caring role to others, their work is invaluable. ‘Learning for Living’ provides a solution, ensuring such needs are met.”

The course is running presently, and has attracted both male and female unpaid carers. Learning for Living is suited to meet a range of abilities, therefore anyone can do it. If you are interested in this programme and working towards the ‘Certificate in the Personal Development and Learning for Unpaid Carers’ qualification with County Training, please contact Gill Thelwell or Gail Marshall on 01948 660100 or email gill.thelwell@shropshire.gov.uk or gail.marshall@shropshire.gov.uk.

9 April 2009