History

Valley Transitionz commenced in the Hutt Valley in April 2002 to offer an alternative employment programme for users of mental health services. This was based on the "Clubhouse" model.

Helen Walsh (Kites) introduced the model to three mental health activity centres - Take5, MASH and Time Out who introduced a volunteer programme into each of their centres.

The volunteer work is the foundation to this programme. This foundation helps to develop an individual's self-belief and confidence and work habits so the individual can return to the workforce.

The next step for individuals who are part of the programme is a Valley Transitionz job. These jobs are paid work for a period of between six and nine months with an employer but the key difference is that the ownership of the position is with Valley Transitionz and not the individual. These jobs are entry-level so the job may not be the individual's career choice but a start into employment. This can lead onto an individual's permanent position and Valley Transitionz will help source this position for the individual.

In 2007/2008, 16 individuals on the Valley Transitionz programme experienced paid work. This ranged from contract work ( 1-2 days to 3 weeks ) to a Valley Transitionz work placement ( 6- 9 months). During that contract year, Valley Transitionz also helped 4 individuals on the programme to obtain a permanent job. This was after those individuals had completed other aspects of the programme.

The development and the progress of Valley Transitionz has been evolving over the last six years and we have now branched out into contract work.