PHX Training and Inspire Lancashire have come together to celebrate the achievements of learners who are transforming their futures through education, confidence-building and personalised support provided by the Move Forward project.
The celebration event recognised individuals who had successfully completed qualifications after being referred to PHX Training through Inspire Lancashire, a service that supports people across the county to make positive changes in relation to drugs or alcohol.
Bringing together learners, tutors and the Inspire team, the event celebrated not only the qualifications gained, but also the determination, resilience and personal progress behind every success.
Education is opening new opportunities
For many learners, returning to education can feel like a daunting first step. Through the partnership between PHX Training and Inspire Lancashire, individuals are supported to overcome barriers, develop new skills and build the confidence needed to take their next steps towards employment, further education and independent living.
Among those recognised was Adrian, who initially felt anxious about returning to learning. With support from Inspire and PHX Training, he grew in confidence, developed practical workplace skills and discovered a belief in his own abilities.
Reflecting on his experience, Adrian said:
“You will receive good support, and they will make a difference in your life.”
Rik was referred to PHX Training while rebuilding his life and looking to establish a positive routine. With tailored support for his ADHD and dyslexia, he successfully achieved his Functional Skills English and Maths qualifications and is now preparing to return to education to study nursing.
Eileen, who joined the programme while recovering from alcohol addiction, admitted she doubted whether she could complete a qualification. Today, she is looking ahead with renewed confidence and is already planning to continue her learning journey with PHX Training.
Her message to others considering taking the same step is simple:
“Have a go! Anyone can achieve it.”
For Uazanga, practical support made all the difference. PHX Training provided flexible learning, a laptop and help with transport, enabling her to complete her qualification and begin working towards a future in cyber security.
She said:
“Don’t waste your time if you have the opportunity. Do it, or else you might regret it.”
A partnership creating lasting impact
The collaboration between PHX Training and Inspire Lancashire demonstrates the value of combining education with specialist recovery support, helping individuals overcome barriers that may once have prevented them from reaching their potential.
Nick, Training, Employment & Education Co-ordinator at Inspire, said:
“When the opportunity arose to link Functional Skills learning, offered through PHX Training, with service users supported by Inspire Preston who may have missed out on English and maths education when they were younger, we developed the partnership to improve outcomes and create new opportunities.
The results have been outstanding. Every learner has grown in confidence and achieved learning outcomes equivalent to GCSE level, while three participants have already progressed into employment, alongside many other positive outcomes.”
Amanda, Business Leader from PHX Training Preston added:
“Every learner’s journey is different, but what they all share is the determination to build a better future. Working alongside Inspire Lancashire allows us to provide tailored support that helps people gain qualifications, grow in confidence and realise opportunities they may never have thought possible. We’re incredibly proud of everything these learners have achieved.”
As the partnership continues to grow, PHX Training and Inspire Lancashire remain committed to helping more people across Lancashire access education, develop new skills and take positive steps towards brighter futures.
PHX Training is a leading training provider that offers a range of training and vocational courses, including basic English and maths and IT skills, up to specific sector qualifications in health and social care, warehousing and business administration.
It also supports people back into work by building training plans and careers advice, free access to computers and printers, CV writing workshops and interview techniques, as well as access to local employers who are recruiting.
PHX has training centres in Carlisle, Barrow, Blackpool, Blackburn, Workington, Morecambe and Preston.
To find out about the full range of support on offer, contact 01228 210 317 or visit www.phxtraining.co.uk.