The Wellbeing Service (GMIRS)

Go back

Big Life is the coordinating service for a successful local partnership of third sector organisations working across Greater Manchester to deliver The Wellbeing Service. 

This service works in local communities across Greater Manchester with people on probation. People access the service via a referral from a probation worker. Anyone currently engaging with the probation system can access our service for free, at locations that suit them.

When someone accesses the service, they receive tailored support that’s designed to match with their aspirations and help them meet their goals. This includes supporting service users with emotional regulation and decision making; wellbeing support and healthy choices; behaviour change; family support and mediation; and finance, debt and benefit advice.

Our goal is to give people more opportunities, tools and positive relationships, meaning that the likelihood of re-engaging with probation services again the future is reduced. The service focuses on providing trauma-informed support that prioritises people’s strengths and aspirations, as we believe this gives people the greatest opportunity to move forward positively.

Although we can provide a wide range of practical support, where we can’t do something ourselves, we’ll work with a person to find the best local organisation to help them.

The service is a partnership comprising local organisations, meaning that when people work with us, they’ll benefit from our in-depth local knowledge and convenient locations. Our mission is to make sure that people have all the tools, information and support they need to succeed while on probation.

If you are a Greater Manchester organisation who works with people on probation, and you want to find out more about how you can work alongside the service please contact Lucy Rodgers.

Our dedicated Family Support service, provided by POPS, helps individuals on probation address family and relationship issues impacting their order or license compliance.

How to refer

Referrals can be made with or separately from a Wellbeing Hub referral, and can be submitted through the referral portal at: https://gmirswelfareportal.powerappsportals.com/

For more information about The Family Support Service, please contact Stephen Sinnott (POPS’ Operations Manager) at: stephens@partnersofprisoners.co.uk.

 

Our Family Support service can:

  • – Provide information to educate families about probation order/license conditions.
  • – Offer basic mediation to address familial and relationship issues.
  • – Facilitate referrals to mediation services for complex family situations.
  • – Assist with resettlement to help people return to or stay in their family homes.
  • – Offer advice and support to reduce the risk of homelessness.
  • – Advise family and relationship networks on debt or substance misuse.
  • – Provide assistance with housing applications or benefit forms.
  • – Offer guidance to people on probation wishing to maintain contact with their children.
  • – Facilitate communication with statutory services (such as Children Services).

Things we don’t offer

  • – Relationship counselling or specialist mental health support.
  • – Chaperoning or advocacy (criminal, family, housing, or court).
  • – Writing services for legal documents (i.e., Family Court applications).
  • – Legal advice or decisions on eligibility for access to children.
  • – Housing or accommodation
  • – Assistance with locating lost family members of individuals on probation.

Please note that family members or nominated network individuals cannot contact the service. We will assist people on probation to ensure that their family or relationship network have access to information for potential future support tailored to their needs.

Weekly drop-in sessions are available to all PoPs referred to our service by probation officers. For further enquiries please email: steve@boltoncommunityadvice.org.

Available daily

Sensory Impairment Advocacy

Works with Sensory impaired people using sign language if required.

Mondays

All day

One-to-one sessions

Offering support with budgeting, managing finances, and understanding housing-related expenses to help individuals maintain housing stability.

AM

Music tuition

The choice of music depends on the individual’s preferences and experiences, but these genres and artist offer a wide range of perspectives and emotions that may resonate with ex-offenders as they navigate their path to recovery.

Next steps recovery (coming soon)

Drug and alcohol recovery it helps clients break free from addiction and learn to live a sober life recovery is continuous process marked by ups and downs individuals can achieve long term sobriety and reclaim control over their lives it’s also about finding hope rebuilding relationships and building a healthier future free from the chains of addiction.

Tuesdays

All day

One-to-one sessions

AM

Music tuition

The choice of music depends on the individual’s preferences and experiences, but these genres and artist offer a wide range of perspectives and emotions that may resonate with ex-offenders as they navigate their path to recovery.

Ingeus Housing

  • Housing Benefit Advice: Providing guidance on accessing housing benefits or navigating the benefits system to help individuals maintain stable housing situations.
  • Referrals to Housing Services: Referring clients to local housing authorities, homelessness prevention services, or housing charities for assistance with finding accommodation, accessing temporary housing, or resolving housing-related crises.
  • Budgeting and Financial Management: Offering support with budgeting, managing finances, and understanding housing-related expenses to help individuals maintain housing stability.
  • Tenancy Support: Providing advice on maintaining a tenancy, understanding tenant rights and responsibilities, and resolving landlord-tenant disputes to prevent homelessness or eviction.
  • Homelessness Prevention: Offering interventions or support services aimed at preventing homelessness, such as mediation with landlords, access to emergency accommodation, or assistance with securing stable housing.

 

PM

The Bridge – Financial Support

Financial advice for ex-offenders can be crucial as they navigate re-entry into society and work to rebuild their lives. Here are some general tips and considerations: they Start by creating a budget that outlines income and expenses. Prioritise essential expenses such as housing, utilities, food, and transportation. Debt Management: any outstanding debts, work on them developing a plan to repay them. Consider contacting creditors to negotiate payment plans or settlements if needed.

Next steps recovery (coming soon)

Drug and alcohol recovery it helps clients break free from addiction and learn to live a sober life recovery is continuous process marked by ups and downs individuals can achieve long term sobriety and reclaim control over their lives it’s also about finding hope rebuilding relationships and building a healthier future free from the chains of addiction.

Wednesdays

All day

One-to-one sessions

AM

Music tuition

The choice of music depends on the individual’s preferences and experiences, but these genres and artist offer a wide range of perspectives and emotions that may resonate with ex-offenders as they navigate their path to recovery.

Achieve

Achieve Northwest is a community organisation based in Bolton, United Kingdom, dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities in achieving their full potential. They offer various services and programs aimed at empowering people and promoting social inclusion, well-being, and personal development in the Hub they focus on employment and training with Bolton probation clients.

Next steps recovery (coming soon)

Drug and alcohol recovery it helps clients break free from addiction and learn to live a sober life recovery is continuous process marked by ups and downs individuals can achieve long term sobriety and reclaim control over their lives it’s also about finding hope rebuilding relationships and building a healthier future free from the chains of addiction.

Thursdays

All day

One-to-one sessions

AM

Music tuition

The choice of music depends on the individual’s preferences and experiences, but these genres and artist offer a wide range of perspectives and emotions that may resonate with ex-offenders as they navigate their path to recovery.

Next steps recovery (coming soon)

Drug and alcohol recovery it helps clients break free from addiction and learn to live a sober life recovery is continuous process marked by ups and downs individuals can achieve long term sobriety and reclaim control over their lives it’s also about finding hope rebuilding relationships and building a healthier future free from the chains of addiction.

PM

Transforming Lives

Helping people who may be struggling with mental health issues or substance and alcohol abuse or any day-to-day problem a dynamic team. These types of activities can be beneficial not only for ex-offenders but also for the general public who may be seeking opportunities for personal growth, social connection, or assistance with specific challenges. By engaging individuals in positive and constructive activities, these programs can help promote rehabilitation, reduce recidivism, and strengthen communities.

Fridays

All day

One-to-one sessions

From 3 June – 12 July

The Hub 131 Rochdale Road, Bury, BL9 7BA 

*To participate in any of the activity sessions please speak to your Support Worker* 

Linzi – 07543 311624 / linzi.mcewing@stepping-stone.org.uk 

Sophie – 07543 311626 / sophie.jones@stepping-stone.org.uk

 

What’s happening..

1 May – 11.3oam

Kirklees Trail (meet at Tottington Library).

3 May – 10.30am – 4pm

Project Free Recovery Forum – Radcliffe Football Club

14 May – 10am – 2pm

Bury Wellbeing Hub open day!

Mondays

10am – 4.3opm

1-2-1 pre-booked Support Worker appointments

Tuesdays

10am – 4.3opm

Drop in to speak to your Support Worker, have a cuppa etc.

10am – 12pm

Achieve Employment Support Appointments

Wednesdays

10.30am – 12pm

Food Bank access

1pm – 3.30pm

Local Nature Walks – every other week

Thursdays

10.30am – 1.30pm

Games/Social Session – every other week

10am – 4.30pm

Citizens Advice Bureau appointments

Fridays

10am – 3.30pm

Arts and Crafts for Mental Health

This session includes getting creative, using a variety of materials. During arts and craft we create art by using acrylic paints, water colours; paints and pencils, clay and pegs. These sessions aim to help both staff and customers improve their mental health by focusing of the beauty of art and not the negative feelings they may be dealing with. These sessions really help customers to relax and open up, some have called the sessions therapeutic.

2pm – 4pm

Food bank access

Our Manchester hub is located at Back on Track, 4th Floor Swan Buildings, 20 Swan Street, Manchester, M4 5JW.

The following classes begin on Tuesday, 4 June and run until Friday, 12 July. 

Tuesdays

9.45am-12.45pm

Learn the Ukulele 

Learn how to play the ukulele. Learn some popular songs and try writing your own with others in the group. No musical experience is required and instruments will be provided, but bring your own if you have one.

9:45am-12:45pm

For the Love of Reading 

Discover the joy of reading for pleasure. Read and discuss a range of texts together, like short fiction, music lyrics, and poetry. Reading has been proven to reduce loneliness, improve mood and boost self-esteem.

9:45am-12pm

Discover Languages 

Have a go at learning basic French, Spanish and British Sign Language (BSL) in this fun and interactive course. Take away resources to help you practise at home, as well as information about further courses if you want to keep learning.

1:15pm-4:15pm

Job Club Try opportunities outside of Back on Track 

Get started with these workshops on CV writing, application forms, searching for opportunities, and much more. Have time to use the computers for your own planning and meet local providers with different opportunities.

1:15pm-4:15pm

Venture into Poetry A short course in poetry writing 

Learn to create your own poems, and have fun doing so! This course is open to everyone, from complete beginners to those who have tried creative writing before.

Wednesdays

9:45am-12:45pm

Drama: Express Yourself Using drama techniques for self-empowerment 

Discover the power of drama in improving communication skills, self-confidence and strengthening our connections with others.

9.45am – 12.45pm

Tastes of Summer A cookery class for beginners 

Find your way around a kitchen with confidence. This course provides the core skills needed to start cooking at home. Master weekday meals, simple salads and summertime desserts.

9:45am-12:45pm

My Journey (Art Project) 12 week course 

Create a book to depict a physical or emotional journey you have taken. Experiment with art techniques such as drawing, stamp making and collage to express this journey unique to you.

1.15pm – 4.15pm

Out and About Weekly walks and cultural visits in Manchester 

Explore the city on foot and discover new places of interest. As the weather gets warmer, experience the benefits of being in green spaces with others on our overall sense of wellbeing.

1.15pm – 4.15pm

Five Ways to Wellbeing – A creative project that will explore wellbeing 

Learn about the Five Ways to Wellbeing model through the lens of art and creativity. Learn how art and creativity can play a part in improving our everyday wellbeing.

Thursdays

9.45am – 12.45pm

My Skills and Strengths 

Create a skills portfolio by recognising your unique skills, strengths and qualities. Learn about the skills that employers value, and how to present and talk about yourself effectively. This course aims to increase your confidence and support you in your progression journey.

9:45am-12:45pm

English & Maths Assessments

Find out your current level in English and Maths so we know which class is right for you. You only need to come along for this once.

Make a start on improving your numeracy skills. Suitable for those working at Entry 1 or 2.

1.15pm – 4.15pm

Maths Functional Skills Qualification (Entry 3) 20-week course leading to a full qualification 

Work towards a nationally recognised qualification in Maths at Entry Level 3, awarded by Open Awards.

9.45am – 12.45pm

Trauma Project with Manchester Art Gallery Be part of making galleries more trauma-aware 

Over 500,000 people visit Manchester Art Gallery (MAG) each year. In this special project with MAG, a small group of members will be invited to contribute their thoughts, ideas and suggestions on how to make galleries accessible and responsive to people with lived experience of trauma.

9.45am – 2pm

Allotment sessions at the Lalley Centre

Weekly growing sessions at a local community allotment in North Manchester. Plant and harvest seasonal food and improve the space for everyone to enjoy. We can support you to continue volunteering with the allotment once the course finishes.

 

Fridays

9.45am – 12.45pm

Digital Skills for Work and Life 

Digital skills are an essential part of managing everyday life and staying on top of things. Learn how to use national platforms like the NHS, Gov and DWP websites, host video calls and prioritise tasks. Ideal for people attending the Tuesday Job Club.

9.45am – 12.45pm

Cuisines of the World A more challenging cookery class 

Travel around the world from the comfort of our centre kitchen! Learn about and prepare dishes from a range of diverse cuisines. Ideal for members who have done a beginners cookery course with us before.

9.45am – 12.45pm

Step into English

Make a start on improving your literacy skills. Suitable for those working at Entry 1 or 2.

1.15pm-4.15pm

English Next Steps

Take your writing and reading skills to the next level. Suitable for those working at Entry 3 and above.

9:45am-12:45pm

Step Into English

Make a start on improving your literacy skills. Suitable for those working at Entry 1 or 2.

1.30pm – 2.30pm

Everyone Can Sing! Join the Back on Track choir 

The ability to respond to music is universal, but the way we react is unique to our personality. These sessions will explore accessible and familiar songs from a wide range of styles and are open to anyone wanting to experience the joy of collective singing.

Guitar Group

Session for beginners: 11:30am-1:30pm 

Master the basics of guitar playing, such as strumming chords and picking simple tunes.

Session for advanced learners: 2-4pm 

Suitable for those who can confidently play basic chords, strum in time, and read TAB.

All groups are at Positive Steps, Medtia Place, 80 Union Street unless stated otherwise.

Mondays

9AM – 5PM

1:1 wellbeing support

One-on-one sessions with a dedicated Wellbeing Worker offering personalised support and guidance.

3PM – 5PM

DIY Group Workshop

Learn basic DIY skills to help you maintain your property.

Tuesdays

9AM – 12PM

1:1 Wellbeing Support

One-on-one sessions with a dedicated Wellbeing Worker offering personalised support and guidance.

3PM – 5PM

Cycling Maintenance Group Session

Learn about how to fix and maintain bikes, with the opportunity to receive a bike at the end of the sessions.

Wednesdays

9AM – 5PM

1:1 wellbeing support

One-on-one sessions with a dedicated Wellbeing Worker offering personalised support and guidance.

3.30PM – 5.30PM

Upcycling

Choose a piece of furniture that’s been donated and they can up-cycle it (sand, paint, amend it etc.) into something of your choice it and take it home at the end of the session.

Thursdays

9AM – 1PM

1:1 Wellbeing Support

One-on-one sessions with a dedicated Wellbeing Worker offering personalised support and guidance.

1PM – 3PM

Dads’ Club

Primrose Bank Community Centre OL8 1HX

Group support with tips on building a positive relationship with your kids, managing behaviour, teenagers and what to expect for new dads!

Fridays

12PM – 2PM

Achieve Job Club

1PM – 5PM

Living Life to The Full / Tuck Shop

We have basic necessities (food items, toiletries, socks, flasks etc.) for anyone with no fixed abode or for people who need food to keep them going over for the weekend

Mondays

9.30am-2pm

Community Café (Pay what you can afford)

A welcoming space for people to enjoy a warm meal and socialise. Pay what you can afford to ensure inclusivity.

9.30am-12.30pm

Wellbeing worker 

One-on-one sessions with a dedicated Wellbeing Worker offering personalised support and guidance.

Tuesdays

10am-2pm

Wellbeing Hub

Engaging activities aimed at promoting positive interactions and skill development within the community.

4pm-6pm

Men’s group – dinner and a chat

An opportunity for men to gather, share a meal, and engage in open conversations in a supportive environment.

Wednesdays

9.30am-2pm

Community Café (Pay what you can afford)

Another day for the community to enjoy the pay-what-you-can-afford Community Café – a welcoming space for people to enjoy a warm meal.

9.30am-12pm

Wellbeing Worker

One-on-one sessions with a dedicated Wellbeing Worker offering personalised support and guidance.

1:30pm-3:30pm

Community Outreach at various venues

Please ask the Wellbeing worker so we can find the most accessible venue for the Client.

4-6pm

Women’s group

Thursdays

10am – 2pm

Wellbeing Hub

Engaging activities aimed at promoting positive interactions and skill development within the community.

10am – 2pm

“Here and Now” sessions / 1 – 1check-ins / small group sessions.

Sessions focused on the present moment, offering individual check-ins and small group discussions for immediate support.

2pm-3pm

“Steps to Change” group

Join a group dedicated to making positive steps towards personal change and growth.

Fridays

9.30am-12pm

Caring Dad’s Group

A 17 Week course for men to look at their relationships, behaviours, and attitudes and the impacted on their children and families.

9.30am-1.30pm

Wellbeing Worker

Continued personalised support with the Wellbeing Worker, addressing individual needs and goals.

12.30pm-3pm

Men’s Mental Health social group

Checking on emotional & psychological wellbeing.

9.30pm-2pm

Community Cafe

Round off the week with another opportunity for the community to gather at the Community Café.

Saturdays

7:30pm – 9pm

Narcotics Anonymous

A supportive space for individuals dealing with drug-related challenges, offering guidance and fellowship.

Sundays

10am – 12pm

Community Café

End the week with a relaxed Sunday morning at the Community Café.

The following activities are available at Salford Foundation – The Shed. 

Mondays

10am – 12pm

RHS gardening session

A creative health session looking at the history of the hub building and that of the local area; including walks and visits to the archive library.

Tuesdays

10am – 12pm

POPS Family Support Drop-in

Partners of Prisoners service for individuals on probation who require support with family matters, or have family members in need of support.

10am – 2pm

History Club

1pm – 3pm

Achieve Jobs Club

A session from Achieve employment services where individuals can access support with CV’s, job searching and build on employability skills.

1pm – 4pm

Citizens Advice

Wednesdays

10am – 11am

Book Club / Creative Writing

11 – 1pm

Art Therapy

This session involves themed activities within a group setting and a chance to develop art skills for mental health, including mindful art, clay art and card making.

12pm – 2pm

Cooking Sessions

Weekly cooking sessions providing an opportunity to build on cooking skills; including cooking on a budget, healthy eating and cooking challenges.

Thursdays

10am – 12pm

Ingeus housing support drop-in

This session is to provide a drop in service for clients on probation in need of emergency housing support or any advice/informaiton around housing.

10am – 12pm

Emotional management

A session delivered by experienced mindfulness facilitators and a chance to develop coping skills to manage anxiety, anger and to build emotional resilience.

10am – 1pm

Counselling sessions

 

Fridays

9am – 11am

Breakfast club

10am – 12pm

Men’s Health sessions

12pm – 2pm

Darts and Dominoes

Mondays

10.30am – 2.30pm

Computer drop-in session

A drop in session to use the IT facilities and complete online applications and training.

2pm – 4pm

Counselling session (appointments only)

Access to a trained therapist that will listen to you and help you find ways to deal with emotional issues.

Tuesdays

9.30am – 11.30am

Coffee and catch up morning for all

A relaxed welcoming space for people to enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and socialise.

1.30pm – 2.30pm

Wellness Group Session Course

An opportunity to participate in a 6 week course that will include mindfulness activities, EFT Tapping, Sound healing activity, Breath-work and meditation, Journalling activity, learning how the brain works and how to regulate emotions. The course is designed to encourage people to engage in open conversations in a supportive environment.

3pm – 4pm

Boxing session

A chance to get involved in a boxing tutorial to improve your mental health by reducing stress, boosting your mood, fostering mindfulness, improve self-esteem and confidence.

4pm – 5pm

Yoga session

A session to help improve your flexibility, strength and mental health with the support of a trained Yoga instructor.

Wednesdays

10am – 12pm

Football Fitness session

An opportunity to participate in a football mentoring session to improve your physical fitness and mental well-being

2pm – 3pm

Art Workshop

A relaxed creative session to encourage you learn new skills and connect with others through art.

Thursdays

10am – 12pm

Computer drop-in session

A drop in session to use the IT facilities and complete online applications and training

2pm – 4pm

Games/Quiz afternoon

Engaging games and quiz activities aimed at promoting positive interactions between individuals that access the Hub.

Fridays

9.30am – 11.30am

Coffee and Chat morning

A relaxed welcoming space for people to enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and socialise.

10am – 12pm

Football Fitness session

An opportunity to participate in a football mentoring session to improve your physical fitness and mental well-being

Clarence Arcade, Stamford St, Ashton-Under-Lyne OL6 7PT

Mondays

GM Wellbeing 1-1s

Time to meet clients, look at their needs and offer much needed support

Tuesdays

GM Wellbeing 1-1s

Time to meet clients, look at their needs and offer much needed support

Week 3

Mentell Support Group

Wednesdays

 Week 1

Professionals Hub

Week 2 and Week 4

Co-location

Week 3

Coffee afternoon and games

Week 4

1.30pm

CAB Smoothie Making

Thursdays

GM Wellbeing 1-1s

Time to meet clients, look at their needs and offer much needed support

Fridays

Week 1, 2 and 4

GM Wellbeing 1-1s

Time to meet clients, look at their needs and offer much needed support

1pm

Mindfulness Session 

Week 3

Team Review Day

Mondays

Women Matta

A women’s centre based here on a Monday that provides intense, holistic support to those women affected by the criminal justice system.

Tuesdays

GM Wellbeing 1-1s

Time to meet clients, look at their needs and offer much needed support

Wednesdays

Every week

GM Wellbeing 1-1s

Time to meet clients, look at their needs and offer much needed support

Week 1

LEGO Group

A time of playfulness and socialising- A chance to build, be mindful and talk whilst using Lego bricks.

Week 2

Arts and Craft

A time to be creative with pencils, paints, and other materials to relax, focus your mind and use your imagination.

Thursdays

Week 2

Professional Hub

Where external organisations visit and support our clients. Please ask your coach.

Week 2 and 4

Co-location

Ingeus, Probation officers, Achieve, POPs and Citizens Advice Bureau all attend on the day to speak and support clients in house through the service.

Week 3

Coffee Morning

Smoothie Afternoon

Fridays

Week 1 and 4

GM Wellbeing 1-1s

Time to meet clients, look at their needs and offer much needed support

Week 2 and 3

Trafford Review Day

Mondays

Every week

1-1 Coaching Sessions (by appointment)

10.30am

Naffi Cafe

A café for all, but also specialising for veterans and individuals who are from the Armed Forces.

11am

Health and Wellbeing Group

A group looking at self-care and wellbeing.

6pm

Women’s Support Group

A group which focuses upon the needs of women and their support.

Tuesdays

Every week

1-1 Coaching Sessions (by appointment)

11am

Gordon Street Community Garden

Created by the Armed Forces HQ. A tranquil place to focus your mind and get green fingers.

Board Games

A time to relax, have fun or be competitive with various board games.

Wednesdays

Co-location – every fortnight

Brings all partners such as Ingeus, Probation officers and other partnerships together to serve and support all clients.

Professional Hubs – once a month

Other agencies and organisations outside the partnership are invited to support our clients. Speak to your coach about dates.

 

Thursdays

11am

Gordon Street Community Garden

A tranquil setting which allows you to get green fingers.

Warhammer

Collect and paint models and access a starter kit for free.

Social Group

Everyone is welcome to join the social group. A time to reflect, relax and socialise in an informal setting.

Fridays

Every week

1-1 Coaching Sessions (by appointment)

10.30am

Naffi Cafe

A café created by the Armed Forces for all types of people.

11am

Support Group

A group for anyone needing that extra support and help.

Access:

The service is delivered in community hubs in each local authority in Greater Manchester. Please contact lucy.rodgers@thebiglifegroup.com to find out more.