Support options available for being out and about

If a health condition or disability is making it harder for you to get into work, volunteering or learning, you are not alone. There is support available across Cumberland to help remove barriers, build confidence and support you to take part in opportunities that work for you.

You may be able to get help with things like:

• adjustments at work, placement or education
• flexible or part-time opportunities
• building skills, confidence and work readiness
• finding roles that match your abilities and interests

You can access support whether you are ready to start now or just want to explore options for the future.

Technology that can help

Technology can make accessing work, volunteering or learning easier if mobility, fatigue, anxiety or other challenges are an issue.

Examples include:

• video calls and online meetings so you can take part from home
• online learning platforms for qualifications, skills or wellbeing
• assistive technology, such as text-to-speech software, screen readers or specialist keyboards
• mobile apps for organising appointments, reminders and daily tasks
• messaging and social apps to stay connected with tutors, employers, volunteers or peer groups

Cumberland Council and local partners can help with digital inclusion support, including advice on using devices, software or getting online.

Services you can access

There are a range of county wide services that can support your wellbeing and help you move towards work, volunteering or education at your own pace.

Social prescribing

A GP or adult social care can refer you to social prescribing team:

• social prescribing, connects you with community activities, wellbeing support, and practical services
• explore options such as equipment, accessible transport, or community activities

Social prescribing can help you build confidence, reduce isolation and take steps towards education or work.

Health and wellbeing support

Health and wellbeing coaches can support with mental health, motivation, staying active and feeling more connected.

Support can be short-term or ongoing, depending on your needs.

Work and employment support

You may be able to access the following support if you are interested in work or need help while working:

• access to work grants - government funding to help pay for workplace adjustments, specialist equipment, support workers or travel costs
• skills and enterprise programmes - courses designed to build confidence, resilience, and employability skills such as interview preparation, stress management and talking to employers about  health needs
• Disability Confident - Cumberland Council is a Disability Confident leader. If you meet the essential criteria for a council job, you are guaranteed an interview

Volunteering opportunities

Cumbria CVS and local community organisations offer flexible, inclusive volunteering roles.

Opportunities can be adjusted around your health, energy levels and availability.

Volunteering can help build skills, routine and confidence for future work or education.

Travel expenses, training, and equipment are often provided.

Education and learning

Adult Learning Services offer free or low cost courses in English, maths, digital skills, employability and wellbeing.

Courses are available online and in local venues.

SEND Information, Advice and Support Service (SEND IAS) can help if you have special educational needs or disabilities, including education, health and care plans and transitions into adulthood.

Transport support

Transport can be a barrier to education, work or volunteering.

Community transport schemes and accessible travel options may be available.

Transport needs can be discussed as part of a care assessment or through social prescribing.

Local support

To find local services that can help and support you, please visit our services directory. 

It brings together information on a wide range of organisations, community groups and care providers, making it easy to discover the support that’s right for you.

Find local support

Additional support

If you have tried a range of aids and support but still finding daily activities more difficult, Adult Services can recommend suitable equipment or services.

They can:

• recommend equipment or assistive technology to support learning or work
• arrange support to help you access opportunities safely and confidently
• signpost you to local training, volunteering or employment support services

Contact Adult Social Care to discuss your needs. They can help you explore activities, technology, and community services tailored to your situation.

You may need to pay for none, some or all of your care or services, depending on your personal financial situation.

Request support