Orla's First Month at Building Self-Belief

Starting my placement year with Building Self-Belief has given me the opportunity to

experience so many different aspects of community work. From supporting children

and young people through a variety of activities and programmes to spending time

with older members of the community. In my short time with Building Self-Belief, I've

begun to see the different ways the charity creates opportunities for people to learn,

connect and develop.

Working with Children and Young People

A big part of my placement so far has involved helping with the toddler group and

after-school children's group in the community garden on Wednesdays, as well as

the youth group on Thursday evenings. I've really enjoyed getting involved in the

different activities and seeing how these sessions give children and young people

opportunities to socialise, try new things and spend time with each other.

I've also been involved in an eco-project with St Joseph's Primary School, which has

included making a fairy garden, visiting Tanfield Railway and doing some pumpkin

carving. These have been some of the highlights of my first few weeks, as I've been

able to take part in creative and practical activities alongside the children. It's been

lovely to see the variety of experiences available to them, particularly those that

encourage them to explore their interests and learn in different ways.

Developing Skills Through Practical Learning

I've also been taking part in an employability programme, which recently included a

trip to the Life Science Centre where the children learnt about electricity, giving them

the chance to explore a new topic through practical learning. I'm also involved in a

wellbeing programme with Harton Academy, which has helped me see another side

of the work carried out by Building Self-Belief.

One of the things I've particularly enjoyed so far is the variety of projects I've been

able to get involved in. Each one has its own focus, from developing practical skills

and encouraging creativity to supporting wellbeing. Being part of these has helped

me understand the many ways community projects can make a positive difference.

The Importance of Connection

Another part of my placement has been helping at Toastie Tuesdays, where older

members of the community come together for a chat and a chance to socialise.

Although this is quite different from the structured activities involved in some of the

other projects, it's been a valuable reminder of the importance of connection and

having a welcoming space within the community.

I've enjoyed being part of an activity that brings people together and gives them the

opportunity to spend time with others. It has also made me think about how

supporting wellbeing doesn't always have to involve a formal programme or activity.

Sometimes, having someone to talk to and a regular place to go can be just as

meaningful.

Putting Psychology into Practice

As a Psychology student at Newcastle University, one of the things I'm finding most

valuable about my placement is being able to relate what I've learnt at university to

experiences outside the classroom. I'm particularly interested in confidence and

wellbeing, so it's been interesting to see how these themes connect with the different

projects I'm involved in.

Working with people of different ages has highlighted the importance of recognising t

hat everyone has different experiences, needs and ways of communicating. I'm

beginning to appreciate how important communication, patience and adaptability are

when working with different groups of people. These are skills I hope to continue

developing throughout my placement, alongside gaining a better understanding of

how community organisations can make a positive difference.

Alongside my practical experience, I'm also completing a counselling course, which

is giving me another opportunity to develop my understanding of how to support

others. I'm looking forward to building on this knowledge throughout my placement

and seeing how it relates to the work I do within the community.

What I have Learnt so Far

Although I’m still at the beginning of my placement year, my first month with Building

Self-Belief has already taught me so much and allowed me to meet people from

different backgrounds. It’s been rewarding to see the different ways the charity brings

people together and supports individuals within the community. I’m looking forward to

continuing to develop my skills, learning from those around me and seeing what the

rest of my placement year brings!