The U-Turn service focuses on volunteering and group work, offering people the opportunity to increase their self-confidence and gain work experience and skills. It has been developed to complement the Moving On service to offer training, knowledge and understanding in a relaxed and friendly group environment. The service is funded by the Big Lottery.
There are a variety of groups which take place both in the local unit as well as opportunities to volunteer with the group on local projects. Volunteering opportunities in the community are led by Apex staff and can be as diverse as artwork to IT skills, healthy eating to working in a hospital garden.
This service is for individuals over the age of 16 who have multiple barriers to employment, such as those at risk of (re)offending.
Referrals are made via Criminal Justice and other partnership agencies such as health professionals, Jobcentre Plus and SDS. Individuals can also self refer.