Continuing support for our community

We deliver a program of learning activities in communities across Somerset. Our range of courses and workshops is designed to support people to develop new skills, build confidence, motivation and resilience. Our goal is to support health and wellbeing, and to develop stronger communities throughout the county.

In order to ensure that we reach as many of Somerset’s residents as possible, we also work with a large partner network of community-based organisations to deliver learning activities.

Things have changed recently

Normally, the community based projects deliver face to face, but they’ve had to make changes quickly to continue providing support. And we’ve been so impressed with the resilience shown by our community learning projects in response to the COVID-19 lockdown.  

So many of our partners have been using alternative delivery methods to continue supporting Somerset residents during this difficult time. In particular, offering online support to parents who have been struggling with home schooling through our Family Learning Programmes and offering workshops to help those with poor mental health, which has been exacerbated by the lockdown restrictions.  Discover more opportunities at SS&L Courses  and select “Community Learning.” 

Those projects who have embraced the change include Mind in Somerset, Chard WATCH, Edventure Frome, The Rubbish Art Project and Baby Bluebird to name but a few. 

Here’s a handful of the positive feedback our community groups have received… 

Online Street Dance/Music 

“We loved listening to it in our garden and wish we could join you all. In a world filled with such negativity and uncertainty it’s an hour of community and release. Keep up the good work.” 

Relaxation Workshop 

“Just to let you know I slept all night for the first time since this mess started – thank you.” 

Autism Workshop

“I think these are the best series of training sessions I’ve ever had. They’ve had a huge impact on my method of working. Just wanted to say thanks.”  

Justin Speirs, Head of Curriculum at SS&L says…

“We’re carrying out a number of learner surveys to ensure we continue to offer accessible learning opportunities that meet the needs of our customers. Additionally, we’re putting together some learner forums with the aim of gathering our customer’s views on how we might adopt some of the changes made once restrictions are lifted, so that we can continue to reach as many people as possible.”   

2020/2021 Funding will soon be available…

SS&L will shortly be opening its Community Learning Partnership fund for 2020/21, inviting partners to apply for funding to support their local community members. If you would like to find out more about this fund, please email  Emma Street who will provide you with the funding details. 

Would you like to help us shape the future of SS&L programmes moving forward?

We are looking for as many people as possible to have their say by taking part in an informal learner voice discussion with a small group on Zoom where you will be able to share your experience and views about the future of our programmes design.

Please email learnervoice@sslcic.co.uk if you are interested in taking part.

If you have any questions, please contact one of our team using Live Chat, social media or the contact us form. 

Stay connected with us for regular updates!