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First Step Project

The First Step Project works with people who are recovering from mental health problems to find them meaningful volunteer work and personal development learning, as a part of their overall recovery plan.

What is Exeter CVS' role in this project?

The First Step Project meets with potential volunteers to find out what they would like to do and how they see volunteering fitting into their broader long-term recovery plan. The volunteer then takes up a suitable opportunity and is given support throughout the volunteering experience.

First Step also looks at volunteers' training and personal development needs.

How does 'First Step' benefit its users?

Each person referred is seen as an individual, and the opportunities offered are tailored to their needs. First Step works with volunteer-involving organisations to ensure a successful placement. Referrals to First Step are through WorkWays or the Community Mental Health Team.

To find out more about the project, please contact John Stammers on 01392 202055 or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

"A.B." Story

A.B. is a young man who has spent the last few years in residential care suffering from severe mental illness. As his condition has steadily improved, he has undertaken a number of "in-house" activities within the residential unit with the goal that he would continue to improve and would eventually be able to live independently.

There were several barriers to him achieving this:

• Lack of social skills
• No contact with people or organisations outside of his unit
• Several years had passed since he last worked
• Fear!

He was referred to First Step, and after discussing his interests, he tried out a few sessions on the supported volunteer gardening programme Lend-a-Hand.

For the first few weeks, A.B was very quiet, would speak only when spoken to (and then only to briefly answer a question), and would work diligently when instructed what to do and when.

Gradually over the coming months, he began to talk more openly, starting conversations and interacting with other members of the team, and taking initiative and making suggestions regarding the team's work.

His social and work skills improved so that he has now begun to live more independently. He now has his own place where he now lives 2 days a week.