NewSteps

We have developed an opportunity to introduce volunteering and learning to substance misuses / drinkers while they are still going through treatment. NewSteps volunteers may be referred by a key or support worker. NewSteps does this by offering a supportive learning programme, enabling volunteers to build confidence, skills and knowledge in an encouraging environment. This will also allow people to prepare themselves for becoming a successful volunteer.

What we can offer:

  • One-to-one support
  • Free training to enhance your skills and development
  • Support and encouragement
  • Match you to an appropriate buddy who will support you
  • Education and qualifications
  • A variety of placement agencies for you to volunteer

As a NewSteps volunteer, you will be linked with a volunteer buddy / befriender who will support and encourage you throughout your volunteering within your chosen placement.

NewSteps Flyer

“The support of NewSteps has played a big part in my recovery”

Exciting opportunities!

We run weekly sessions in the following places:

Tuesday:

Become part of the M.E.G.A Team! This stands for Multi-agency Environmental Grounds and Allotment Team. Each Tuesday, our volunteers head off to Newport to meet up with other service users who are in recovery and are volunteering with NewSteps and other treatment agencies in and around Newport. We do a range of work within the Cardiff, Newport and Chepstow area. Each week we all get together and go to treatment agencies, sheltered houses, hostels, churches and local area’s to clear up the gardens and give something back to the local community.

Wednesdays and Fridays:

The Riverside Community Garden, based in Pontcanna allotments is the perfect setting for someone who maybe hasn’t volunteered before and is looking for a stress free but worthwhile voluntary opportunity. Here you will learn how to plant, grow and cook with vegetables. There is a wood work area, an outdoor kitchen and lots of lovely jobs to do. You will work alongside lots of people from many walks of life, all who are rich in knowledge of gardening and much more.

We also offer a fully trained NewLink ‘buddy’ who will come with you to your voluntary position as support if needed.

We hold information desks in the following places:

  • The Best Centre – Every other Thursday from 1pm - 3pm
  • Big Issue – First Monday of every month from 8.30am - 9.15am
  • Design for Living- Last Monday of the month from 2pm-3.30pm

To find out more about NewSteps please email Kat York, NewSteps Project Worker or call 02920 529002.

“I love going to Riverside Gardens, it’s the highlight of my week. My mum likes it when I take home vegetables that I’ve grown there”

“If it wasn’t for NewSteps helping to keep me focused and giving me a routine by regularly attending the allotments I would have relapsed by now”

“Once I complete my probation hours, I’d like to keep attending the Newport Gardening Initiative; the support of NewSteps has kept me going over the last 3 months”