The Learning and Work Service assists people in Birmingham who are recovering or suffering from mental ill health. We provide information, advice and guidance (IAG) for people who wish consider their learning, training and employment options. We offer a one-to-one confidential guidance interview and help with decision making and planning achievable goals.

The advice and guidance conforms to the standards set by the MATRIX accreditation. Our achievement of this award gives our advisers access to a range of resources to assist their clients. BITA Pathways' MATRIX award was renewed for three years in March 2010.

All BITA Pathways' Learning and Work Advisers possess a relevant qualification, an NVQ in Advice & Guidance at Level 3 or 4 and they understand the barriers and difficulties so often experienced when suffering mental ill health;

All interviews are conducted on a confidential 1-1 basis. As part of the service the support offered will include:-

• A programme of personal development to include confidence building, motivational skills and stress management.
• Advice on welfare benefits
• Access to accredited pre-vocational and vocational training programmes.
• Access to an employment support service which includes job search, job coach, CV and job preparation.
• Progression pathways to work tasters and experience or volunteer placements.
• Access to various projects, courses and training facilities which can lead to accredited qualifications, increased self-esteem and confidence and social inclusion.

You can download a copy of our Learning & Work Service Referral Form:
»  Downloads Page - Learning & Work Service Referral Form

To discuss accessing this service, please contact the Learning and Work Service on
0121 713 0075 or email learningandwork@bitapathways.co.uk.