YMCA’s Umbrella Pathways is proud to launch an exciting new 10-week programme designed to support individuals with neurodivergent diagnoses in overcoming barriers to employment, building confidence, improving motivation, and finding positive direction for the future.
Taking place every Tuesday from 2:00pm until 4:00pm, the programme will provide a safe, welcoming and supportive environment where participants can develop new skills, meet others, and explore future opportunities in a relaxed and inclusive setting. The programme is led by Sonia Aftab, alongside Blessed Moyo and Bhupinder Nadra, who will work closely with participants throughout the journey to provide encouragement, guidance and person-centred support. All clients attending Umbrella Pathways will be referred through the DWP Youth Hub, ensuring individuals receive the help and support needed to move forward positively towards employment, education or further training.
Throughout the programme, participants will take part in a range of fun, creative and wellbeing-focused activities designed not only to engage individuals but also to achieve meaningful outcomes. Activities will include boxing sessions to support anger management, confidence and emotional wellbeing, as well as several art and talking therapy sessions aimed at encouraging creativity and self-expression. Clay making workshops will help open conversations around depression and anxiety, while crystal painting sessions will offer participants the opportunity to relax, focus and express themselves creatively. Alongside these activities, the programme will also focus on helping participants improve motivation, confidence and employability skills, supporting them to explore future pathways and opportunities.
Umbrella Pathways is also delighted to welcome a range of guest speakers and organisations throughout the programme, including Just Straight Talk, Brit Asia, and mental health awareness sessions delivered by Ideal for All. The programme has been carefully designed to be enjoyable, engaging and supportive while remaining focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for every participant.
Recently, Umbrella Pathways welcomed participants to another engaging and supportive session led by Sonia Aftab, supported by Blessed Moyo and Bhupinder Nadra, focusing primarily on Mental Health Awareness Week. The session was designed to create a calm, safe and open environment where individuals felt comfortable discussing mental health, emotional wellbeing and the importance of support networks.
Throughout the afternoon, participants took part in diamond art activities which encouraged relaxation, creativity and meaningful conversations around mental health in a gentle and informal way. The calming nature of the activity helped individuals feel more at ease while opening discussions surrounding emotions, anxiety, stress and personal wellbeing.
As part of the session, we were delighted to welcome a guest speaker from Ideal for All, who delivered an informative and insightful talk around adult mental health awareness and the importance of seeking support when needed. The discussion particularly focused on men’s mental health awareness, highlighting the challenges many men face when talking about emotional wellbeing and encouraging individuals to break down the stigma surrounding mental health conversations. Participants were also provided with valuable information about the services and support available through Ideal for All, helping them better understand the resources that can support both themselves and others within the community.
The session created a positive and reflective atmosphere where participants were able to express themselves freely, build confidence and gain a deeper understanding of mental health and wellbeing. Through creative activities, open discussion and professional guidance, the afternoon successfully encouraged awareness, connection and support amongst the group.
Umbrella Pathways continues to provide a welcoming environment where individuals feel heard, supported and empowered as they work towards improving confidence, wellbeing and future opportunities.