FIRST STEP TRUST - FST ENFIELD

On 13th November, the Rt Hon Joan Ryan, MP for Enfield North, visited FST Enfield to find out more about the work that the project does. Joan said “FST Enfield is an excellent example of a project providing work opportunities to help people with mental health problems recover and regain control of their lives. Work and the benefits it brings, should be accessible to all members of the community.” Roy Hutson, FST Manager said “we were delighted to meet Joan and were extremely encouraged by her support for people with mental health issues.” This follows on from a visit in September from the Mayor of Enfield, Eleftherios Savva. We have built up an excellent team, working with 60 people over the last year. FST Enfield is a genuine working environment providing opportunities for workforce members to develop a range of practical and administrative skills.

In 2006 we won FST Project of the Year award and one of our workforce members, Duane Green, won Achiever of the Year. Recent projects include the refurbishment of a three-storey Georgian building and a major hard-landscaping contract including the design and build of a decking area, laying a patio and erecting a six-foot high fence. Our work placements provide on-the job training. Each worker has a personal development plan which tracks their progress towards becoming ready to move on to paid employment, alternative voluntary work or further education.

FST Enfield offers workforce members the opportunity to learn ‘on the job’ and acquire the following skills: General The basic skills required by employers such as timekeeping, ability to work in a team and a positive attitude towards work. Office administration All aspects of office administration including computer skills, data inputting, following office procedures etc. Financial administration such as working with invoices, petty cash, processing cheques, paying suppliers, ordering supplies etc.