New Free Community Learning Centre Coming To Park Barn

Published on: 3 Jun, 2019
Updated on: 5 Jun, 2019

A new community learning centre is coming to the Park Barn Centre in Guildford.

Hosted by the Surrey Lifelong Learning Partnership (SLLP), the drop-in hub will operate on Thursdays from 10am to 2pm and will offer free advice and guidance around a whole raft of issues people face in their lives.

These include support with the basics of smart phones and laptop computers, feeding a family on a budget, managing money made simple. cutting out smoking, reducing / stopping alcohol, health and well-being and so on.

SLLP says no topic is off limits. “If the adviser is unsure then we find out and signpost. Support is free and confidential.”

There will be a launch day on Thursday, June 13 at 10am, to which all are welcome to attend with tea and coffee provided.

The Park Barn Centre is off Park Barn Drive GU2 8EN.

People will have the opportunity to speak with an adviser in confidence. The intention of the first face-to-face meeting is to discuss with the person what their needs and expectations are and how they can be best supported going forward. Thereafter, signposting opportunities will be considered.

Equally as important is the opportunity to provide learning at the centre which will be focused on the needs of the community. Embedded within this learning will be functional skills such as maths and English, plus IT awareness in preparedness for future employment or simply to be more confident in general life skills.

The hub is being funded in conjunction with Project Aspire, the community grant scheme set up by Guildford Borough Council.

SLLP also operates the successful Guildford Bike Project. Bicycles donated by the public and various agencies are completely refurbished and sold from outlets in Stoke and Westborough.

Sales income contributes to the running of the enterprise. Unemployed men and women gain work experience and confidence while on the project. This flagship venture has helped many who have been reluctant to return to learning to gain City & Guilds Cycle Maintenance Awards and other skills.

Its other local project is the Guildford Learning and Development Enterprise (GLADE). It delivers gardening and street cleansing services for Guildford Borough Council while offering opportunities for residents in Stoke and Westborough to volunteer, gain work experience, skills and employment.

GLADE has provided courses in amenity horticulture, confidence for work, office IT and numeracy. Two local charities partner SLLP in this venture – Oakleaf Enterprise and YMCA Downslink.