F joined The Baytree Centre with the goal of improving her English and becoming more involved in her community. Like many women we support, she faced multiple barriers and needed ongoing support to build her confidence and develop new skills.
Over time, F progressed through Baytree’s ESOL programme, gaining accredited qualifications and improving her confidence in speaking, reading and writing English. She also developed her digital skills and accessed Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) and one to one coaching through Baytree’s Women’s Service, helping her identify her strengths, build confidence and explore opportunities available to her.
As her confidence grew, F participated in a Food Ambassadors programme with a local charity, where she gained a Food Hygiene Certificate and worked alongside other participants to develop and deliver a community project. Through these opportunities, she developed practical skills, increased her confidence and became more engaged in community activities.
F also began volunteering and has continued to volunteer at Baytree, contributing her time, skills and lived experience to support other women and the wider community. Her journey demonstrates how education, advice, guidance, coaching and volunteering can create meaningful progression opportunities for individuals who may initially lack confidence or face barriers to participation.
Many people accessing advice services bring valuable lived experience and a strong desire to give back to their communities. With the right support, training and opportunities, they can become volunteers, peer supporters, community leaders and potentially future advisers. Investing in these pathways is an important part of developing a sustainable and diverse advice workforce that reflects the communities it serves.
