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    • Understanding Anxiety and Anxiety Management

      Event date and time: 8 Apr 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      The first part of this course will explore anxiety, what can cause this condition, how it presents itself and what effect it can have. The second part of this course will then focus on ways to manage anxiety and focus on strategies that may help, including self-care techniques. 

    • Effective Communication in Relationships

      Event date and time: 10 Apr 2024, 17:30 – 19:30
      Event description:

      This course will build awareness of communication in relationships and explore ways to make it more effective through understanding our roles and patterns in relationships, different communication styles and how we can make changes to communicate more effectively. 

    • Understanding Anxiety and Anxiety Management

      Event date and time: 15 Apr 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      The first part of this course will explore anxiety, what can cause this condition, how it presents itself and what effect it can have. The second part of this course will then focus on ways to manage anxiety and focus on strategies that may help, including self-care techniques. 

    • Effective Communication in Relationships

      Event date and time: 17 Apr 2024, 17:30 – 19:30
      Event description:

      This course will build awareness of communication in relationships and explore ways to make it more effective through understanding our roles and patterns in relationships, different communication styles and how we can make changes to communicate more effectively. 

    • Understanding Anxiety and Anxiety Management

      Event date and time: 22 Apr 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      The first part of this course will explore anxiety, what can cause this condition, how it presents itself and what effect it can have. The second part of this course will then focus on ways to manage anxiety and focus on strategies that may help, including self-care techniques. 

    • Effective Communication in Relationships

      Event date and time: 24 Apr 2024, 17:30 – 19:30
      Event description:

      This course will build awareness of communication in relationships and explore ways to make it more effective through understanding our roles and patterns in relationships, different communication styles and how we can make changes to communicate more effectively. 

    • Practical Mindfulness

      Event date and time: 26 Apr 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      The skills of mindfulness are simply about being present to what is happening here and now.  It is not about what has gone before or what may be happening next but how to focus on one thing at a time.  This course aims to show how you can train yourself to use mindfulness every day and demonstrate the reality of making practical changes. 

    • Understanding Anxiety and Anxiety Management

      Event date and time: 29 Apr 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      The first part of this course will explore anxiety, what can cause this condition, how it presents itself and what effect it can have. The second part of this course will then focus on ways to manage anxiety and focus on strategies that may help, including self-care techniques. 

    • Yoga for Stress Relief

      Event date and time: 1 May 2024, 14:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      A gentle full-body practice to calm the mind and body. We will focus on moving the body into postures that reduce anxiety, encourage relaxation and ease out muscle tension. There will also be guided relaxation and breathing techniques to help you let go of the stress of the week. 

    • Practical Mindfulness

      Event date and time: 3 May 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      The skills of mindfulness are simply about being present to what is happening here and now.  It is not about what has gone before or what may be happening next but how to focus on one thing at a time.  This course aims to show how you can train yourself to use mindfulness every day and demonstrate the reality of making practical changes. 

    • Reading for Health and Wellbeing

      Event date and time: 9 May 2024, 13:30 – 15:00
      Event description:

      Do you use reading to support your wellbeing? Or is this something you'd like to try? We'll share our enjoyment of reading and think about the benefits of picking up a book. We'll take a look at mindful reading and learn some techniques to assess health information. This class is suitable for everyone, whether you're an avid reader or haven't picked up a book in years.

    • Learn to Awaken Self-Compassion

      Event date and time: 9 May 2024, 14:00 – 16:00
      Event description:

      On this course you will learn practical ways to awaken self-compassion and cultivate a more compassionate heart and mind, based on the work of Dr. Kristin Neff.  We will explore the different approaches to self-compassion from a variety of traditions and learn how to build them into our daily life. 

       

    • Practical Mindfulness

      Event date and time: 10 May 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      The skills of mindfulness are simply about being present to what is happening here and now.  It is not about what has gone before or what may be happening next but how to focus on one thing at a time.  This course aims to show how you can train yourself to use mindfulness every day and demonstrate the reality of making practical changes. 

    • Learn to Awaken Self-Compassion

      Event date and time: 16 May 2024, 14:00 – 16:00
      Event description:

      On this course you will learn practical ways to awaken self-compassion and cultivate a more compassionate heart and mind, based on the work of Dr. Kristin Neff.  We will explore the different approaches to self-compassion from a variety of traditions and learn how to build them into our daily life. 

       

    • Practical Mindfulness

      Event date and time: 17 May 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      The skills of mindfulness are simply about being present to what is happening here and now.  It is not about what has gone before or what may be happening next but how to focus on one thing at a time.  This course aims to show how you can train yourself to use mindfulness every day and demonstrate the reality of making practical changes. 

    • Understanding Fibromyalgia

      Event date and time: 20 May 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      Fibromyalgia is a chronic long term pain condition, often combined with other multiple symptoms. This course will explore the history of Fibromyalgia, the main symptoms and potential triggers, together with ways to manage this condition. 

    • Understanding PTSD

      Event date and time: 22 May 2024, 12:30 – 14:30
      Event description:

      This course explores what PTSD is and its effects, looking at the signs and symptoms and what to look out for. We will also consider different self-help strategies and look at what support is available to those experiencing PTSD or trauma. 

    • Learn to Awaken Self-Compassion

      Event date and time: 23 May 2024, 14:00 – 16:00
      Event description:

      On this course you will learn practical ways to awaken self-compassion and cultivate a more compassionate heart and mind, based on the work of Dr. Kristin Neff.  We will explore the different approaches to self-compassion from a variety of traditions and learn how to build them into our daily life. 

       

    • A Taste of Mindfulness in Practice

      Event date and time: 3 Jun 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      This course provides an introduction to Mindfulness and how we can benefit from being more ‘present’. The skills of mindfulness are simply about being present to what is happening here and now.  It is not about what has gone before or what may be happening next but how to focus on one thing at a time.  

    • Building Your Self-Esteem and Assertiveness

      Event date and time: 7 Jun 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      This course looks at self-esteem and the tools we can use to develop our sense of self-worth.  From there we go on to explore assertiveness and the steps we can take to practice assertive techniques when needed. This course is open to everyone with an interest in personal growth and offers plenty of exercises and examples. This course is very self-exploratory and we will undertake activities that require self-reflection. 

    • Building Your Self-Esteem and Assertiveness

      Event date and time: 14 Jun 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      This course looks at self-esteem and the tools we can use to develop our sense of self-worth.  From there we go on to explore assertiveness and the steps we can take to practice assertive techniques when needed. This course is open to everyone with an interest in personal growth and offers plenty of exercises and examples. This course is very self-exploratory and we will undertake activities that require self-reflection. 

    • Craft Your Way to Mindfulness - Beaded Flowers

      Event date and time: 14 Jun 2024, 11:00 – 12:30
      Event description:

      Let us help you find a craft that allows you to be truly in the moment, unwind, have fun and develop an interest that may help with your wellbeing We provide materials for each craft and we promise that you need to be neither arty or have previous experience to have a go! 

    • Understanding Fatigue and Fatigue Management

      Event date and time: 14 Jun 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      Fatigue is a prominent and often overwhelming symptom within a variety of chronic health conditions. We will look at the impact fatigue can have on various aspects of a person’s life and discuss management and energy conservation strategies that can help in improving the general quality of life when living with fatigue. 

    • Exploring Loss and Moving Forward

      Event date and time: 20 Jun 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      We’ve all experienced different types of loss such as grief, estrangement, employment, financial or personal loss. Loss is unique and affects people in so many different ways. This course will look at what generates the sense of loss, different experiences and self-care. 

    • Building Your Self-Esteem and Assertiveness

      Event date and time: 21 Jun 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      This course looks at self-esteem and the tools we can use to develop our sense of self-worth.  From there we go on to explore assertiveness and the steps we can take to practice assertive techniques when needed. This course is open to everyone with an interest in personal growth and offers plenty of exercises and examples. This course is very self-exploratory and we will undertake activities that require self-reflection. 

    • Understanding Fatigue and Fatigue Management

      Event date and time: 21 Jun 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      Fatigue is a prominent and often overwhelming symptom within a variety of chronic health conditions. We will look at the impact fatigue can have on various aspects of a person’s life and discuss management and energy conservation strategies that can help in improving the general quality of life when living with fatigue. 

    • Suicide Awareness

      Event date and time: 24 Jun 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      An introductory session to develop awareness of suicide and suicidality and have a chance to reflect and discuss this sensitive subject. We will also explore what it is like to experience suicidal feelings and/or to care for a suicidal person, looking at some do’s and don’ts when talking to someone about suicide. 

    • The How, What and Why of Self-Compassion

      Event date and time: 26 Jun 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      There is now more and more evidence of the health benefits of treating ourselves with kindness and the downsides of harsh self-criticism. This course, based on the work of Prof. Paul Gilbert, aims to highlight the mental and physical systems that drive us, illustrate why self-compassion can help with our general wellbeing, and teach a range of exercises to shift our minds to a more compassionate state.

    • Exploring Loss and Moving Forward

      Event date and time: 27 Jun 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      We’ve all experienced different types of loss such as grief, estrangement, employment, financial or personal loss. Loss is unique and affects people in so many different ways. This course will look at what generates the sense of loss, different experiences and self-care. 

    • Building Your Self-Esteem and Assertiveness

      Event date and time: 28 Jun 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      This course looks at self-esteem and the tools we can use to develop our sense of self-worth.  From there we go on to explore assertiveness and the steps we can take to practice assertive techniques when needed. This course is open to everyone with an interest in personal growth and offers plenty of exercises and examples. This course is very self-exploratory and we will undertake activities that require self-reflection. 

    • Understanding Dementia

      Event date and time: 1 Jul 2024, 11:30 – 13:00
      Event description:

      This course is an introduction to dementia. The course provides information on the signs and symptoms of the most common types of dementia. Together we will explore practical tools and coping skills for day-to-day wellbeing for all those supporting a person living with dementia. 

    • Exploring Your Energy Through the Chakras

      Event date and time: 1 Jul 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      In this three-week course we will be exploring the seven main chakras in the body and how to activate and balance each one of them for vibrant free flowing energy.  We will be using a variety of tools such as colour, food, sound, crystals, movement and aroma to connect better with our own energy system. 

    • The How, What and Why of Self-Compassion

      Event date and time: 3 Jul 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      There is now more and more evidence of the health benefits of treating ourselves with kindness and the downsides of harsh self-criticism. This course, based on the work of Prof. Paul Gilbert, aims to highlight the mental and physical systems that drive us, illustrate why self-compassion can help with our general wellbeing, and teach a range of exercises to shift our minds to a more compassionate state.

    • The Power of Journaling for Wellbeing

      Event date and time: 4 Jul 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      Journaling has been proven to improve both physical and mental health and wellbeing.  There’s more to journaling than just keeping a diary of events!  This course will help you to gain knowledge on the benefits of journaling, cover the how, why and when to journal with tips and techniques to get you started on creating and maintaining a powerful wellbeing practise. 

    • Understanding Dementia

      Event date and time: 8 Jul 2024, 11:30 – 13:00
      Event description:

      This course is an introduction to dementia. The course provides information on the signs and symptoms of the most common types of dementia. Together we will explore practical tools and coping skills for day-to-day wellbeing for all those supporting a person living with dementia. 

    • Exploring Your Energy Through the Chakras

      Event date and time: 8 Jul 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      In this three-week course we will be exploring the seven main chakras in the body and how to activate and balance each one of them for vibrant free flowing energy.  We will be using a variety of tools such as colour, food, sound, crystals, movement and aroma to connect better with our own energy system. 

    • Lived Experience and the Potential it Holds

      Event date and time: 9 Jul 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      "We do not learn from experience...we learn from reflecting on experience” - John Dewey 
      This course aims to develop our understanding of the recovery approach when using lived experience, it is open to everyone at all levels and is an ideal opportunity to explore this area in more detail.  

    • The How, What and Why of Self-Compassion

      Event date and time: 10 Jul 2024, 11:00 – 13:00
      Event description:

      There is now more and more evidence of the health benefits of treating ourselves with kindness and the downsides of harsh self-criticism. This course, based on the work of Prof. Paul Gilbert, aims to highlight the mental and physical systems that drive us, illustrate why self-compassion can help with our general wellbeing, and teach a range of exercises to shift our minds to a more compassionate state.

    • The Power of Journaling for Wellbeing

      Event date and time: 11 Jul 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      Journaling has been proven to improve both physical and mental health and wellbeing.  There’s more to journaling than just keeping a diary of events!  This course will help you to gain knowledge on the benefits of journaling, cover the how, why and when to journal with tips and techniques to get you started on creating and maintaining a powerful wellbeing practise. 

    • Craft Your Way to Mindfulness - Dry Clay Coasters

      Event date and time: 12 Jul 2024, 11:00 – 12:30
      Event description:

      Let us help you find a craft that allows you to be truly in the moment, unwind, have fun and develop an interest that may help with your wellbeing We provide materials for each craft and we promise that you need to be neither arty or have previous experience to have a go!

    • Exploring Your Energy Through the Chakras

      Event date and time: 15 Jul 2024, 13:00 – 15:00
      Event description:

      In this three-week course we will be exploring the seven main chakras in the body and how to activate and balance each one of them for vibrant free flowing energy.  We will be using a variety of tools such as colour, food, sound, crystals, movement and aroma to connect better with our own energy system. 

    • Lived Experience and the Potential it Holds

      Event date and time: 16 Jul 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      "We do not learn from experience...we learn from reflecting on experience” - John Dewey 
      This course aims to develop our understanding of the recovery approach when using lived experience, it is open to everyone at all levels and is an ideal opportunity to explore this area in more detail.  

    • The Power of Journaling for Wellbeing

      Event date and time: 18 Jul 2024, 10:00 – 12:00
      Event description:

      Journaling has been proven to improve both physical and mental health and wellbeing.  There’s more to journaling than just keeping a diary of events!  This course will help you to gain knowledge on the benefits of journaling, cover the how, why and when to journal with tips and techniques to get you started on creating and maintaining a powerful wellbeing practise. 

    • Craft Your Way to Mindfulness - Circle Weaving

      Event date and time: 19 Jul 2024, 11:00 – 12:30
      Event description:

      Let us help you find a craft that allows you to be truly in the moment, unwind, have fun and develop an interest that may help with your wellbeing We provide materials for each craft and we promise that you need to be neither arty or have previous experience to have a go! 


How much do courses cost?

All courses at the Wellbeing and Recovery College are free to attend for all of our students.

 

How long are the courses?

Courses vary in length. Some are one off sessions, others can be weekly for up to 6 sessions. Course duration is a maximum of 3 hours once a week.

 

How many courses can I apply for at once?

You may book on up to three courses each term, this enables all students to be able to access the courses that are on offer, as well as ensuring that the amount of courses you book on to is manageable for you.

Of course, you are welcome to let us know if there are additional courses that you are interested in at any time. We can then add you to the waiting list and you will have the option of booking on these additional courses next term, subject to availability. This can be discussed while developing your Individual Learning Plan.

 

Are there any entry requirements to enrol as a student at the Wellbeing and Recovery College?

There are no entry requirements, all of our courses are free and open to all, regardless of your educational background or experience.

 

What do I do if I want further information about a course?

Please feel free to contact us 01785 221257 or 07891 099460, or email us wellbeingrec@mpft.nhs.uk. We are always happy to talk to you regarding any information you may need.

 

Why are we called a 'Wellbeing and Recovery College'?

Our Wellbeing and Recovery College is one of many such colleges across the UK, we provide recovery-focused education courses that are accessible to everyone in our local communities. Our courses focus on both mental and physical health and wellbeing and provide a safe space for shared learning.

 

How is the content of the course designed?

All of our courses are co-designed and co-facilitated by both a Peer Trainer with lived experience of mental health challenges or caring for someone with mental health challenges, and a professional with experience of working with people with challenges linked to the subject of the course.

 

What if I find I need support with my learning once the course has started?

If the course you are attending is in-person, please contact us via phone or email as soon as possible and we will be happy to discuss your support needs further.

If the course you are attending is online, then please send a private chat message to the Course Mentor during the training session who will gladly assist you with any technical support, as well as provide general health and wellbeing support as required.

 

Will courses return to classrooms?

Our long term aim is to offer a balance of online and face-to-face courses, and this blended approach began in Spring Term 2022.

We are continuously working to increase the in-person courses gradually over time, alongside our online courses, to offer all students a choice of how they would like to attend.

All in-person courses will be subject to government guidelines at the time, and we will let you know if there are any changes to courses that you have booked onto.

 

What if I need support with my mental wellbeing whilst attending the Wellbeing and Recovery College?

The Wellbeing and Recovery College is set up and run as a Further Education provider. Therefore we do not provide clinical interventions or therapy, as we expect you to be able to access support outside of the college.

If you are feeling unwell or distressed while attending a course it is important that you speak with us as soon as possible. We will have access to your Personal Support Plan, which can be developed with you during your enrolment to ensure that you receive the support you need.

 

If I require additional support, is there any extra help available?

During your Individual Learning Plan, or at any point whilst you are a student with us, you can ask us to complete a Personal Support Plan with you. This can be used to make us aware of any additional support that we can offer to you before, during or after any courses that you attend with our college and we will also be able to share this information with the trainers and course mentor to ensure they are aware of how best to support you during the session.

 

I have specific requirements such as large print, or an interpreter. Is this possible?

We endeavour to do everything we can to meet your needs. As long as you let us know in advance of attending your course, we will do all we can to support your requirements. Please talk to us during your Individual Learning Plan, or at any point via telephone or email, regarding any specific requirements that you may have.

 

I use mental health services. Do I need to be referred by my community team?

No. We do not have a system for referrals as although the college is designed for people with lived and professional experience of mental health services, we operate the same as any other further education establishment. Your local team may recommend us to you but they cannot refer. All are welcome to share their learning journey together with no discrimination or distinction.

 

I work for the Trust and am interested in some of the courses. Can I enrol?

The Wellbeing and Recovery College is free and open to all who are over 18, including those who work for the Trust. One of the things that make our Wellbeing and Recovery College so unique is that it is truly collaborative. When you enrol into the college you will not be labelled as a ‘Service User’, ‘Carer’ or ’Professional’ - you will simply be considered a student. You may wish to learn more to help your practice or to gain knowledge to help you to manage your own wellbeing. Everyone learns together and from each other.

 

I care for someone who uses services. Can I enrol?

Our courses are designed for anyone who cares for someone, for people who use our services, people who work in them, and those who are simply interested in recovery-based learning.

 

Can I attend courses to support someone else?

We thoroughly welcome you to have someone with you to support you on our courses, whether these are in person or online, if you feel that you would benefit from this.

However, they would also need to be enrolled as a student with the college, book a place on the course for themselves and be present during the training session.

The reason for this is primarily to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students on the course, in terms of safeguarding and duty of care. It is also important for audit purposes as we need to keep a record of every student who attends the courses.

Wellbeing & Recovery College Contact Details

Phone numbers, fax and email

Address

Wellbeing & Recovery College,
St. George's Hospital,
Corporation Street ,
Stafford,
ST16 3AG