Training

SRA

Social Enterprise at SRA

To support recovery and progression, SRA runs three inclusive, skill-building social enterprises that offer real-world experience and purposeful engagement:

🧹 Sweepers - Professional cleaning services that build routine, responsibility, and attention to detail
🍽️ SRA Caterers - A catering team delivering nutritious meals while developing food hygiene, teamwork, and cooking skills
🖨️ The Copyshop - A printing and design hub where trainees learn production, quality control, and customer service skills

An added extra:

💻 IT Support & Training - Digital skills development - learn microsoft programs, typing skills and internet

These enterprises provide structured roles, peer support, and transferable skills, helping participants build confidence, demonstrate motivation, and prepare for future employment, volunteering, or education.

What we Offer

At SRA, we champion the strengths and potential of every individual. Our structured, activity-based programme supports recovery, builds autonomy, and promotes lasting wellbeing. Through purposeful engagement and tailored support, participants are empowered to:

Build confidence and self-esteem
Improve concentration and stamina
Strengthen social and communication skills
Learn to manage stress
Develop practical skills for everyday life

Our ultimate goal is to help people move beyond the mental health system and thrive independently, connected, capable, and confident in their future.

The SRA Pathway

Before joining the programme, prospective trainees are invited to visit SRA for an informal chat. This initial meeting offers a chance to explore what the service provides, discuss individual goals and expectations, and consider whether the programme is a good fit.

Once a referral form is completed, a start date is typically arranged within a few days. Staff work collaboratively with each trainee to identify meaningful goals and outline how these can be achieved. These goals often include engaging in external activities, such as courses, volunteering, or social opportunities, while continuing to attend SRA. The organisation maintains a wide network of providers to support progression and ensure access to current opportunities.

Induction & Review

Weeks 1–4: The initial phase focuses on building relationships with staff and peers. A full induction is provided on the first day, covering policies, procedures, and introductions.

Ongoing Review: After four weeks, each Service User completes a Recovery Star self-assessment and a Mental Wellbeing Questionnaire. These tools are revisited every six months to monitor progress and adjust support as needed.

Training & Session Times

On-the-job training begins in one or more departments - catering, cleaning, printing, IT, or reception/admin. Service users may move between or attend more than one department, depending on interests, goals, and suitability.

Session Times

Morning: 9:30am – 12:00pm
Lunch: 12:00pm
Afternoon: 1:00pm – 3:30pm

A minimum of four half-day sessions per week is recommended at the outset to support routine, engagement, and progression. However, SRA recognises that this may not be suitable for everyone. Attendance can be adjusted to accommodate individual needs, and flexibility is built into the programme to support wellbeing and sustained participation.

Incentives & Practical Support

Free lunch on attendance days
£2.50 per session (max £20/week), paid into a bank account
Discount bus fare covered if no Freedom Pass
Support with Freedom Pass/Oyster applications, budgeting, and everyday challenges

Offsite Training and Activities

We offer opportunities to update skills and knowledge through both mandatory and optional training:

Mandatory: Basic Food Hygiene (for catering roles)
Optional: Health & Safety, Customer Care, Literacy, Numeracy, IT

Accredited courses demonstrate motivation and readiness for education, volunteering, or employment. We also connect trainees to creative and peer-led opportunities through our extensive network, such as art/music projects, and peer support groups.

Moving On

When personal goals are achieved, Service Users can transition to full-time education, volunteering, or open employment. We provide planning and support throughout this move, and continue offering guidance after departure, if needed.