Lived Experience into Action Project (LEAP)
Lived Experience into Action Project (LEAP) is a Wolverhampton-based support initiative run by Good Shepherd and funded by the Oak Foundation. The project offers people with experience of homelessness the opportunity to volunteer and provide support to others going through similar challenges.
The project has obtained LERO, Lived Experience Recovery Organisations, status from the College of Lived Experience Recovery Organisations (CLERO). The status recognises that LEAP is a programme that promotes an evidence-based approach predicated on Lived Experience.
Support Service for Wolverhampton Residents
The LEAP project offers a support service for Wolverhampton residents by enabling volunteers with lived experience to help clients keep their tenancies and avoid homelessness. LEAP volunteers offer quick access to one-to-one brief intervention support sessions, focusing on those facing multiple disadvantages and a history of street homelessness.
The range of support services offered through LEAP is extensive. It includes access to peer support, addiction and outreach services, befriending, and signposting to other relevant services. Volunteers also assist with housing advice, benefits, employment, training, education, advocacy, form filling, debt management, and general wellbeing support. Group activities and volunteering opportunities are also part of the programme, helping to build community and resilience.
Applicants must reside in Wolverhampton. The support provided should contribute to maintaining a tenancy. Priority will be given to individuals experiencing multiple disadvantages and those with a history of street homelessness.
Become a LEAP Volunteer
The LEAP volunteer programme provides two tiers of volunteering opportunities: LEAP Navigators, for individuals in the early stages of recovery, and Senior LEAP Navigators, for those who have demonstrated stability and the capability to safely and effectively deliver peer support.
We offer internal volunteer training, external accredited training, and a Level 3 Adult Health and Social Care Diploma.
LEAP also offers a comprehensive person centred/recovery focused support package to all volunteers to ensure that volunteers maintain their recovery and personal growth.
Volunteer programme criteria:
- A lived experience of either homelessness, drug/alcohol addiction, mental health, or related issues
- To be illicit drug/alcohol free for at least 3 months – If there have been dependency issues
- Able to demonstrate stability in their life and commitment to ongoing recovery
- Motivated to develop their skills, abilities, and engage with training opportunities
For more information or to apply for the support service or volunteer programme email Chris Cole LEAP Project manager [email protected] or call 01902 399955.
“When you experience things in life, sometimes you can start to believe that because of those experiences, you will never amount to anything. Like this is as good as it gets, but the LEAP was basically saying that because you’ve experienced all this trauma, we’re giving you this opportunity.” Nicole, LEAP Volunteer
Nicole is one of our amazing LEAP volunteers at the Good Shepherd, using her own life experiences and developing her skills to support people accessing our services.