"Better Lives" work placement for those with learning disabilities. (360G-CheshireCF-A479992)

Bridge Wellness Gardens in Ellesmere Port proves a therapeutic environment, volunteering and employment opportunity for those with mental health issues and learning disabilities and difficulties. The project aims to address lack of employment for people with learning disabilities and difficulties, giving them mentoring and training and the opportunity to gain confidence, increase self esteem, gain lifeskills and interact positively in society with the aim of them going on to permanent employment either with ourselves in a sponsored post or elsewhere in the local community. The grant funding will be used to pay for mentoring and training of two clients and will pay their wages and costs for mentor and overseer. It will also cover evaluation and resources. The most significant difference that the project will make is that for many working in our gardens, planting, growing, nurturing, selling vegetable produce and making craft items is the first time that they have been engaged in gainful activity that gives them the pride and achievement of a pay packet. This raises self esteem, promotes confidence, allows for peer interaction and interaction with the general public. It also springboards them into the possibility of further employment.