Our personal development, work and skills programme starting in September 2024 is designed to support you if:

  • You're unemployed and looking to prepare to apply for work, volunteering or further study.
  • You’re in unsuitable or unsustainable work or would like to explore a change in job or career.
  • You'd like to build confidence through exploring your skills, strengths and opportunities.

We can support you to take positive steps back towards suitable and sustainable personal development goals in a safe, supportive environment and in a way that suits you.

The three months programme is available to anyone living with HIV who is looking for a safe peer-supported space to connect with others and learn about applying for work, setting professional goals and planning how to achieve them. As well as offering guidance, support and an accountable plan of action, bespoke to your needs and ambitions.

The online sessions are interactive and include a mixture of information and small group discussions to share ideas and learning. There will be the option for people based in and around London to attend some in person/hybrid training sessions. 

If you're living in the UK, you'll be able to access the programme online through Zoom group webinars, along with one-to-one mentoring and peer support.

What can I gain from the work and skills programme?

  • Get support to reflect on your skills, strengths and experience to apply confidently for work.
  • Learn to navigate modern day recruitment processes.
  • Develop and renew skills for today’s workplaces.
  • Meet new people.
  • Develop confidence and self-esteem.
  • Overcome personal barriers to work.
  • Get support to update your CV and search for work, volunteering opportunities or further study and training.
  • A new vision if you’re feeling ‘stuck’.
  • Evidence-based support that can help you achieve your goals.
  • A post-mentorship plan which means you can keep up the good work by yourself.

What does the work and skills programme offer?

  • A three month calendar of employment-readiness peer learning webinars such as identifying strengths and skills, setting personal goals, successful CVs and application forms and how to prepare for interviews led by experienced group facilitators and peer co-facilitators.
  • Self-directed learning.
  • An online mentor who will provide you with one to one support approximately twice a month.
  • Online peer support and new supportive peer relationships.
  • Support to access local volunteering opportunities.
  • Direction in order to build a plan which feels exciting and attainable.
  • A safe space to talk openly about your hopes and ambitions.
  • Practical advice on clarifying next steps and providing relevant signposts.

How do I get involved?

We’re now accepting applications of interest from people living with HIV for our next intake.

If you’d like to register your interest for the programme or would like to find out more, please complete the short form at the bottom of the page. Our Employment Support Officer will get back to you to follow up with a short assessment.

If you’re looking for group support with your wellbeing, see our Groups and Workshops page for more information.

Closing date for applications of interest: Monday 26 August 2024.