Weekly Update
College News
February 8, 2024
Welcome to the Weekly Update.
As many of you will be aware our College has been through many ups and downs since it first started in 2015. You may be aware of the difficult financial position Kirklees council are in. This means they are making some tough decisions to reduce the deficit in their budget, which includes the closure of our main Recovery College site in Mirfield (Pathways) in the spring of this year. The exact dates are yet to be confirmed. We know this may come as a surprise, a shock even for many of you. Many of us have an emotional attachment to the building in Mirfield and it will be a bit of a wrench seeing it close.
Please try not to worry and remember our College is not made of bricks or mortar but people, and we will still be around and continuing to offer great courses, and in fact we are expanding our staff team in Kirklees over the spring. This will enable us to grow our course offer later this year in different venues across Kirklees.
We are also continuing to work in Calderdale using new venues and with new partners such as Everybody Arts and Unmasked Mental Health. To find out more do drop into our session at Unmasked Mental Health on 28th February .
As we continue to develop and firm up plans, we will keep you in the loop via our Weekly Update!
In case you missed it:
We are adding more courses all the time so do have a look at our current timetable to find out more. Just click on the icon below:
Courses in Calderdale- these are just a selection
Get Animated: Stop Motion
Everybody Arts (formerly Artworks), Shaw Lodge Mills, Shaw Lane, Halifax, HX3 9ET
Thursday 22 February 2024 1pm – 3.30pm (6 weeks)
Join us, as together we learn about the fun and playful art of stop motion animation. Over six weeks we will look at different animation styles, create our own unique character and story boards using stop motion animation, design a background set and make a short film incorporating sound and movement. This fabulous course, delivered by Jess from Creative Minds and Recovery College Volunteer, Laura will enable us to release our inner child and have some creative fun while learning a new skill alongside other learners in a friendly and safe space. No previous experience necessary and all materials and equipment provided.
This course is available to learners from Calderdale and Kirklees
Creative Mandalas
Everybody Arts (formerly Artworks), Shaw Lodge Mills, Shaw Lane, Halifax, HX3 9ET
Thursday 22 February 2024 10:00-12:00 (5 weeks)
Come and join us on our Creative Mandala mixed media course. Delivered by our fabulous, Creative Practitioner, Sarah O’Boyle, this five week, face to face course will introduce you to a series of techniques that explore stencils, scale, composition, layer processes and embellishment. We will also explore the gentle, relaxing benefits of creative mandala making and its positive outcomes on mental health and wellbeing.
No drawing experience is needed, and all materials will be provided. Suitable for beginners or learners that are more experienced.
If you are new to the College please enrol here
If you are already enrolled with The College please express your interest by email us at: ckrecovery.wellbeing@swyt.nhs.uk
Creative Mandalas
Kayaking Taster Sessions
Calder & Hebble Navigation, Canalside, The Wharf, Sowerby Bridge, Halifax, HX6 2AG
Thursday 7 March 2024 10:45am-1:00pm 1 weeks
Thursday 21 March 2024 10:45am-1:00pm 1 weeks
Thursday 11 April 2024 10:45am-1:00pm 1 weeks
Thursday 25 April 2024 10:45am-1:00pm 1 weeks
Thursday 9 May 2024 10:45am-1:00pm 1 weeks
Thursday 6 June 2024 10:45am-1:00pm 1 weeks
Thursday 20 June 2024 10:45am-1:00pm 1 weeks
Our partners Blackdog Outdoors are running separate ‘one-off’ Kayaking Taster Sessions on the Calder & Hebble Navigation Canal, for our Calderdale and Kirklees learners.
During this “one-off” taster session you will be introduced to Kayaking, and you will learn some basic paddling skills from a fully qualified instructor. You will then take a leisurely paddle down the canal, with the rest of the group and the instructors. This stretch of the canal is beautiful, passing through open countryside and parts of our industrial heritage, with regular sightings of moor hens, swans, geese, and other wildlife. These sessions are a great opportunity to try something new, see some interesting sights and have some fun!
The sessions are suitable for all fitness levels and abilities. All kit will be provided, and we will be wearing buoyancy aids when on the water.
Please note this is a taster and priority will be given to learners who have not previously attended a kayaking session.
8th March International Women’s day:
Find Your Inner SHERO
Unmasked Mental Health, 20-26 Commercial Street Halifax Town Centre Halifax HX1 1TA
Online – SPACES
Mirfield site now fully booked
Friday 8 March 2024 10am – 12pm 1 weeks
On International Women’s Day we will be celebrating the power of the female voice. Using inspiration from the ‘100 Women Who Changed the World’, we will unearth our stories of change with the support and guidance of our wonderful Recovery College Facilitators. Through group discussion, games, art and writing we will showcase ordinary women, like us, living extraordinary lives. We will celebrate the challenges we have grown through, whether it be a personal conquest, the skills we might share as mothers, the time we have given back to the community. We are all extraordinary women making positive change in our homes, communities and the lives of others. This is your time to be heard and to celebrate you!
Please note, if attending one of the face to face sessions then it can be booked on it’s own or in conjunction with our other International Women’s Day workshop: Women’s Wellbeing: Pamper Me. If you do attend both, please feel free to bring a packed lunch and join the Facilitators and other learners over the break.
Find Your Inner SHERO
Women’s Wellbeing: Pamper Me
Kirklees Recovery College, Kirklees Recovery & Wellbeing College, Pathways, Nettleton Rd, Mirfield, WF14 9AQ Fully Booked
Unmasked Mental Health, 20-26 Commercial Street Halifax Town Centre Halifax HX1 1TA – SPACES
Online – SPACES
Friday 8 March 1-3pm
On International Women’s Day we will take some much-needed time out to create our very own self-care pamper package. In this one-off workshop, delivered by our wonderful Facilitators, we will discuss as a group the things we need on a daily basis to stay well. We will try out some pamper routines and create our very own pamper package to take home.
Please note, that this session can be booked on it’s own or in conjunction with our other International Women’s Day workshop: Find your inner SHERO. If you do attend both of the face to face sessions, please feel free to bring a packed lunch and join the Facilitators and other learners over the break.
Gratitude Jar Workshop
Unmasked Mental Health, 20-26 Commercial Street Halifax Town Centre Halifax HX1 1TA
Monday 18 March 2024 12.30pm – 3pm 1 weeks
Holmfirth Tech, 140 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth, HD9 3AR
Wednesday 20 March 2024 6.30pm – 9pm 1 week
Come along and step into gratitude – both for those around you and as part of your own self-care. In this one-off workshop we will learn about the science of gratitude jars, how they can support our happiness, build positive relationships, and help us to appreciate all the good things in life. We will each build a jar for someone special in our lives and start to create a jar for ourselves which we can use and build on throughout the year ahead.
Before attending this session, please think about who you want to gift the jar to and bring along any pictures, photos, or small mementos that you would like to include. You can also bring a jar that is special to you, or alternatively we can provide one for you.
If you are already enrolled with the College, to book your place please email ckrecovery.wellbeing@swyt.nhs.uk
If you are new to the Recovery & Wellbeing College, please enrol here.
ROKT Climbing Development Course
ROKT Old Flour Mill Millroyd Street Brighouse HD6 1EY
Tuesday 9th April 11am – 12.30pm 7 weeks
Back by popular demand! Our Partners ROKT Climbing Gym are launching more free climbing courses for you our Calderdale and Kirklees Learners. During this Climbing Development course you will have a trained and experienced instructor with you to make sure that you are safe and you’ll be part of a group.
This climbing course is aimed at anyone who would like to use climbing to improve their wellbeing. Don’t be put off if you’ve never been climbing before-ROKT cater for every ability.
If you’re a beginner you don’t have to be really fit to start climbing or bouldering, a basic level of fitness and mobility is required.
If you want to try rope climbing ROKT have a 21.5 metre high lead wall and several 16 metre climbing silos. Their expert instructors will help you fit a harness and show you how to rope climb confidently and safely.
You will be amazed at how much fun it is and how good you get. Did you know climbing is good for your mental and physical health as well!
For more info about ROKT Climbing follow this link to check out our video https://youtu.be/LeRBFjj2GBw
ROKT Climbing Development Course – Calderdale
Creative Wellbeing Walks (Calderdale)
Shibden Park Thursday 11 April 2024 11am – 2pm 1 weeks
Sowerby Bridge Canal Thursday 18 April 2024 11am – 2pm 1 weeks
Manor Heath Park Thursday 25 April 2024 11am – 2pm 1 weeks
Ogden Water Thursday 2 May 2024 11am – 2pm 1 weeks
Come along and join friendly facilitators, Jess & Mick as we head out and enjoy the great outdoors for a walk in beautiful tranquil settings across Calderdale. Supported by Creative Minds, these sessions will also provide the opportunity to try some creative activities during the walks including, arts and crafts, photography and creative writing. So, please join us on this wellbeing adventure and learn some new ways to give your mood a boost.
There will be four walks in different locations across Calderdale over consecutive weeks, you can book on as many (or as few) as you like!
Please note that all the walks are designed to be gentle in nature and suitable for beginners with breaks for creative activities. Please bring a packed lunch and wear appropriate clothing and footwear according to the weather.
To read about a previous learners experience on these creative wellbeing walks click here: Wellbeing Walks: a beacon of hope – Calderdale and Kirklees Recovery College (calderdalekirkleesrc.nhs.uk)
Creative Wellbeing Walks (Calderdale)
truly made these walks transformative was the camaraderie they fostered. Interacting with fellow participants, sharing stories, and simply engaging in co
lView some of our other courses across our college sites below
Improving Your Sleep
Online: Tuesday 20 February 2024 12.30pm – 2.30pm 1 week
Folly Hall: Tuesday 9 July 2024 12.30pm – 2.30pm 1 week
This one-off learning seminar will help you gain a better understanding of sleep, the impact it has and, most importantly what you can do to sleep better. The session will introduce self-help techniques, such as relaxation, sleep tips and sleep retraining. The idea behind this is to teach you the skills to manage your symptoms and become your own sleep therapist. The session will be facilitated by two friendly psychological wellbeing practitioners.
Improving Your Sleep
Managing Stress
Folly Hall, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield HD1 3LT
Tuesday 12 March 2024 10.30am – 12.30pm 1 weeks
This learning seminar will help you develop your knowledge and awareness of stress, how stress affects you and most importantly what you can do to manage it. The session will be facilitated by two friendly psychological wellbeing practitioners and it will introduce self-help techniques such as relaxation, problem solving and challenging negative thoughts, helping you to learn skills to manage your own symptoms and become your own therapist.
Declutter your life
Kirklees Recovery College, Kirklees Recovery & Wellbeing College, Pathways, Nettleton Rd, Mirfield, WF14 9AQ
Tuesday 12 March 2024 10am – 12pm 2 weeks
The stuff we buy and accumulate over time can clutter our minds as well as our homes. So, join us for this insightful two-week course as together we learn how to live with less and to regain control of our choices – and lives. With the help and support of our lovely Peer Worker, Karen we will discuss ways to simplify our lives, to focus on the things that are important to us and practical ways to rid ourselves of the chaos of our overfilled drawers, cupboards and minds!
Please be aware that this course is not suitable for those who have hoarding tendencies due to the specialised and complex nature of this condition.
African Drumming
Kirklees Recovery College, Kirklees Recovery & Wellbeing College, Pathways, Nettleton Rd, Mirfield, WF14 9AQ
Thursday 14 March 2024 12.30pm -2.00pm 2 weeks
The benefits of djembe drumming in a group is widely recognised. This can prove to be a joyful and therapeutic experience bringing a sense of belonging and harmony to all involved. This fun, two week interactive workshop is a great introduction to African drumming and provides the opportunity to play some simple beats and rhythms in a supportive space. All abilities welcome including beginners and instruments are provided.
Creating Cartoon Characters
Kirklees Recovery College, Kirklees Recovery & Wellbeing College, Pathways, Nettleton Rd, Mirfield, WF14 9AQ
Monday 18 March 2024 12pm – 3pm 1 week
Whether you want a space to explore your creativity, try out drawing and doodling your own characters (even if you think you can’t), or want to learn how to design your very own cartoon then join us for this brand-new, one-off creative workshop. With the help and support of our fab Facilitators, James & Ethan, together we will discover how to create our own cartoon characters and how to bring them to life using a range of emotions and scenarios.
No previous experience is required, as long as you’re willing to have a go! Templates and prompts will be provided, if required, as well as a brew and biscuits!
Creating Cartoon Characters
Springtime Fun with Felt
Kirklees Recovery College, Kirklees Recovery & Wellbeing College, Pathways, Nettleton Rd, Mirfield, WF14 9AQ
Wednesday 20 March 2024 12.30pm – 3pm 1 week
This Spring, join our wonderful volunteer, Laura as together we learn some simple techniques using felts. Using Easter, Eid, or other Springtime festivities as our inspiration we will create our very own, uniquely decorated tote bag to take away to proudly show to our friends and family. This type of craft activity is a great way to enhance our wellbeing; it allows us to focus our minds on a single task, helping us to forget about our worries for a while, as well as giving us the chance to create our very own piece of artwork. Everyone is welcome and no previous experience is necessary.
Please note that our Craft Room is based upstairs and there is no lift available. If you have any access needs, please let us know at the time of booking and we will make every effort to meet your needs.
Springtime Fun with Felt
Write Time for Wellbeing
Kirklees Success Centre, Business and Leisure Complex, John Smith’s Stadium, Stadium Way, Huddersfield, HD1 6PG
Monday 8 April 2024 10am – 12.30pm 6 weeks
Come and join us on this popular writing course. During this enlightening course, delivered by our partners at Kirklees Success Centre, you will have the opportunity to use a type of mindfulness, using writing to provide you with the space and time to reflect on your thoughts and feelings in the here and now. This can help to boost your mood, raise self-awareness and create feelings of calm and contentment. The activities you’ll learn will provide you with tools you can use to help you cope better with the stresses and challenges we face in life.
There will be a one week break on Monday 6 May due to the bank holiday. The course will finish on Monday 20 May.
Please be aware that due to funding from Kirklees Success Centre, priority will be given to learners living in Kirklees.
“This course has given me another range of tools to help with my depression and anxiety”
Previous learner on Write Time for
If you are already enrolled with the College, to book your place please email ckrecovery.wellbeing@swyt.nhs.uk
If you are new to the Recovery & Wellbeing College, please enrol here.
Covid rates are high. Please don’t spread your germs if you have any symptoms remember to stay at home! Thanks
Other Community Offers:
Men’s Talk- MT Digital Showreel Event (coming up soon)
There are still some places left on this event- Thursday 29th February.
To reserve a seat email stuart.hawkes@commlinks.co.uk or mens.talk@commlinks.co.uk
Men’s Talk is Community Links’ project for men who are managing long-term mental health issues. It is a creative advocacy project for men with lived experience of mental health difficulties.
Men’s Talk Digital is open to any man who is accessing the CLEAR service. (Community Links Engagement and Recovery Service.) For more details of CLEAR please see the link below.
Men’s Talk works with men to develop new skills, build confidence and create platforms for their voices. Central to Men’s Talk is encouraging other men who are experiencing mental health issues to seek the support that they need.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082411594145
FreeKlime – free climbing sessions
Friday 23rd February – and the last Friday of each month
Fee entry and shoe hire. A qualified instructor give you an introduction to bouldering session for around 45minutes. After this is over to you to continue to use the centre as you wish.
Sign up by emailing – john@blackdogoutdoors.co.uk
More info can be found via the Facebook Event here – https://fb.me/e/49zo2AYHp
Mondays at the Museum (Huddersfield)
A weekly Monday opportunity to take part in various activities designed with your health and wellbeing in mind, all within the inspirational setting of Tolson Museum and Ravensknowle Park.
Join us to find out more and have a go! Suitable for all ages and abilities – everyone is very welcome.
Currently every Monday 1100 except Bank Holidays.
For more information, please email info@huddersfieldmission.org.uk
Organiser
SSDW COMMUNITY DANCE4HEALTH
Mondays 1.30pm – 2.30pm at Thrive @ Connect, 21 Bond Street, Dewsbury, WF13 1AX
This 7-week dance project will be starting Monday 5th February 2024 and will run weekly on the following dates:
- 5th, 12th & 19th February (No session on 26th February)
- 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th March
Dance4Health is for you if you are struggling to get back into physical activity, feel like you have lost the motivation for exercise or even a little bit worried about having no coordination and or low confidence. Please do not worry, you’re in safe hands. The level of the class is accessible for all abilities (and can be done seated) – you have the freedom to work at your own pace and to your own capabilities. Come and “dance till you feel better” through a fusion of Urban Dance, Aerobics, 50s, 60s, 70s and International Dance – Feel the benefits of getting your body moving by improving your health and wellbeing.
Only 15 FREE places are available for this course – attend all of the sessions to receive a copy of my brand new Self-Discovery Wellness Workbook. If you are open to journaling, finding out about yourself and discovering what it is that you want you will definitely benefit. The purpose of the workbook is to guide you towards better awareness of your wellbeing and to create a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Book a space on to this course via this link – https://ssdancewellbeing.co.uk/item/ssdw-community-dance4health
Free wellbeing activities every Friday 930am – 3pm
FOCAL New Hey Road, Salendine Nook, HD3 4DD (next to the Salvation Army)
Mens’ group; Yoga; Craft; Adult learning sessions; IT support; Wellness Drop in – weight management, smoking; and so much more
Facebook.com/focallindley
Call 01484516444
Free Drumming for Wellbeing 2 week courses funded by Central England Co-operative.
Holmfirth Tech – Wednesdays 10-11.30am
21st & 28th February
Denby Dale Methodist Church – Thursdays 10-11.30am
22nd & 29th February
Did you know that group drumming reduces stress, strengthens the immune system and boosts fitness?
These two hands-on courses teach participants the benefits of playing percussion together. Learn to play the different Samba percussion instruments as a group supported by members of Valley Beats Samba Band. This very friendly class is run by professional Community Percussionist Katie Mallard. Suitable for adults or all ages and all abilities. Absolutely no experience needed.
BOOKING ESSENTIAL:
Visit: www.rhythmstick.co.uk/book-a-course
or contact Katie 07736 049089
Wellbeing walk or outdoor activity with S2R Create Space
Wednesday 14 February 2024 13:00
Huddersfield Leisure Centre, Spring Grove Street, Springwood, Huddersfield, HD1 4BP
Greenhead Park walk – every Wednesday in February. Meet us at the entrance of Huddersfield Leisure Centre for a gentle walk to and around Greenhead Park, and back. Booking for first session essential.
Organiser
Kirklees Libraries- did you know Kirklees libraries are “Warm Spaces”?
Warm spaces in libraries
Libraries in Kirklees are warm spaces and everyone is welcome. All of our libraries are heated, so are comfortable to stay in for long periods of time. Every building has a range of both comfy seating, and more functional furniture for study or computer use. They are a place to keep warm, meet friends, sit and read and take part in activities.
Warm spaces – Kirklees Libraries
Calderdale and Kirklees Libraries – Reading Well
Did you know that libraries offer Reading Well collections- books that support your health and wellbeing. It’s a scheme that’s endorsed by health professionals and supported by public libraries. This is the link for Calderdale, but Kirklees offer a similar collection also.
Health and Reading Well | Calderdale Libraries
This is the link for the Kirklees Libraries collection
Health and wellbeing | Kirklees Libraries
Why not ask at your local library?
Books on your phone, through the Libby app
If you have a smartphone, you can read e-books and listen to audio books on your phone or tablet from your public library. Both Calderdale and Kirklees can offer this through the Libby app- see links below for more information
Libby and other online resources | Kirklees Libraries
Winter Warmth Sessions: Free Access To Creative Activity For All
Everybody Arts (Artworks) Halifax
For more info: Winter Warmth Sessions: Free Access to Creative Activity for All — Everybody Arts
Proper Job’s LAB Projects:
Join us at LAB (Learn Achieve Believe) to develop your confidence in a supportive and creative environment. We work with unemployed adults aged 19+ across Kirklees, Calderdale and Manchester on a variety of projects designed to improve your confidence, wellbeing, and skills for employment. All courses are FREE to attend, with the added bonus of up to £5 per day reimbursed travel costs, plus a £5 voucher for each course day completed.
- LAB Project (Employability) – spend 2-weeks with our tutors exploring your skillset, developing your confidence and practicing presentation/facilitation in a warm, nurturing environment. Plus the opportunity to network at your Progression Event. (Lvl 1 qualification in Progression available)
- LAB Wellbeing – spend 1-week with our tutors exploring your wellbeing and practical strategies to cope with mild to moderate mental-health struggles.
- LAB Volunteering – spend 1-week with our tutors exploring what it takes to contribute successfully as a volunteer in any organisation. Plus the opportunity to network at your Progression Event.
- LAB Life – spend 4-5 days with our tutors exploring practical numeracy skills, supporting you with the costs of living, managing a budget and household bills.
For more info for residents in Kirklees & Calderdale contact:
07716 639 494 / 07596 953 743
Cost of Living Information:
Click the link below to find links to websites and workbooks that can provide help and advice with money, debt and the cost of living.
Cost of Living Information – Calderdale and Kirklees
Calderdale Cost Of Living Newsletter
We lots of helpful information of local organisations to support you with the Cost of Living:
Calderdale Cost of Living Newsletter November/December
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