In March a group of Burngreave residents completed the Introduction to Community Development and Health (ICDH) course, which is an accredited course that looks at the issues which matter to you and your community.
Participants learn about different views on health and what it means to them, they identify opportunities for empowerment, they look at building on strengths within the community, how to achieve change for health and developing skills for working with others.
Course tutor Tahira Faiz said,
“It has been an absolute honour and privilege to deliver this course in the Burngreave area. I am extremely proud of all the participants who have worked very hard on this intensive course. I hope that participants will be equipped with the tools to make a positive contribution in their own lives and the community. I wish them all the best for the future whatever they choose to do, be it further education, running their own groups, voluntary work or paid employment.”
Course participant Ursula said,
“I already do community work in Fir Vale through my charity Adira which I run full time on a voluntary basis. I am hoping that by doing courses like this it will support and strengthen any application grants for funding. I hope this enables me to get paid to do a job that I love. This course has helped me to become more confident, sociable and grounded. Tahira as a tutor has taught me the real meaning of patience and professionalism. She was understanding, diplomatic and sensitive to the needs of the students.”
Another course participant said,
“On the ICDH Course it felt at first like self-counselling which has helped me in my personal life. Also I got to understand people from different countries. I see with different eyes now and I am more open minded. It has helped me so much in gaining a better understanding of health, I have gained confidence and I have improved my health for the better.”
The course really helped local people to develop their skills and confidence.
Students’ comments on the course included:
“It’s a stepping stone to further education.” Shaiesta
“I gained a broader understanding of public health and met a great group of people.”
“I gained confidence to speak out. I found out what the community needs and about working with them.”
“The course has given me confidence to do more courses involving helping in the community and confidence to learn more health awareness and sticking to it to achieve a qualification. “ Naz
“I’ve really enjoyed the course because Tahira has delivered it in a fun and enjoyable way.” Nieda