Kensington and Chelsea adults can learn everything from barbering to mental health first aid from the comfort of their own homes thanks to the return of the Community Leadership Programme.
The packed programme run by Kensington and Chelsea Council offers interactive online courses delivered by voluntary sector organisations to anyone living in the borough aged 18 and over via videoconferencing.
People can sign up for expert tuition in barbering from North Kensington’s Mo Better Cutz, develop football leadership and respect skills with local team Minds United FC, learn about youth work from the Harrow Club W10 or even discover ways to keep kids healthy with the Venture Centre.
The Community Leadership Programme was introduced last year, when face-to-face workshops were offered to residents in North Kensington. It is being delivered entirely online this year to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
“The Community Leadership Programme was a big hit in North Kensington and we are excited to now offer classes to residents across the borough. If you’re thinking of cutting your own hair in lockdown, the programme even offers online sessions with a local barber!
Cllr Anne Cyron, Lead Member for Communities
“Whether you want to develop existing skills or learn new ones, there really is something for everyone.”
Dr Beverley Duguid took part in last year’s Community Leadership Programme through courses with Portobello Business Centre. She has since launched her own wellbeing organisation and website and has encouraged people from all backgrounds to give the Programme a go:
“The courses I did made me realise what I could do, got me to look at my strengths and what I was lacking and brought out the skills I had that were good for business.
Dr Beverley Duguid
“To anyone thinking of taking part in the Community Leadership Programme, I say take the plunge. There is a whole community out there who could be helped by what you have to offer.”
Dr Beverley Duguid
To view the full list of courses in this year’s Community Leadership Programme, visit https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/grenfell-response-and-recovery/our-progress-grenfell-recovery/community-leadership-programme.