19 March 2024
Positive Pathways Awarded Nearly £25,000
Positive Pathways has been awarded £24,536 by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Emerging Needs Fund.
Positive Pathways, run by Community First, is a scheme for Havant Borough residents aged 18+ who need help and support to volunteer in their community.
People with a history of crime, crime victims or those that are vulnerable or have been unemployed for a long time receive support through team volunteering, mentoring, training workshops and social activities.
Positive Pathways can help them to develop purpose, a sense of achievement, confidence and improve their wellbeing.
The Emerging Needs Fund is one of the ways the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Donna Jones, is working to prevent crime across the two counties.
Tim Houghton, Chief Executive Officer of Community First, said: “We are grateful for this grant from the Police and Crime Commissioner which will enable us to continue supporting people to reconnect with their communities.
“Since 2017 we have helped over 300 clients to create their own pathways to live fuller, healthier lives, improve their confidence while gaining valuable work experience and eventually move them closer to employment.”
Pictured – Positive Pathways member, David, volunteering painting skills at Havant Methodist Church
Individuals like David who began volunteering with Positive Pathways to help his self-confidence and social anxiety, will benefit from the support this grant will fund.
David has developed communication, problem-solving and teamwork skills from volunteering as a gardener, conservation work with the National Park, beach cleans, litter picking, and painting Community First’s Leigh Park Centre.
A keen guitar player and songwriter, he currently volunteers as a presenter on Flash radio and has had his own record played live on air. David will soon start training to present shows by himself.
In addition to volunteering opportunities, David has received training to build his confidence and self-esteem, use initiative, develop positive thinking and work as part of a team.
David said: “Positive Pathways has supported my personal development, including my creativity and encouraged me to try new adventures like poetry, music, guitar, song writing and more recently radio presenting.
“I cannot thank the Community First team enough. They give me support, encouragement and understanding to show that I am not alone, and through that kindness and thoughtfulness, I can become more confident. I know that whatever I struggle with, there is someone to help.”