In a world where mental health and well-being are finally gaining the recognition they deserve, Learning Well stands as a beacon of hope, providing tailored support and training for individuals and organisations. At the helm of this transformative initiative is Kate, a dedicated leader whose vision and commitment have shaped the success of Learning Well. This blog delves into Kate’s journey, the organisation’s unique approach, and its plans to continue driving change.
Building a Unique Identity
Learning Well’s services are far from one-size-fits-all. From supporting employees navigating significant life changes, such as menopause, to addressing men’s mental health, the organisation embraces diversity in its training. As Kate aptly puts it, “We do men’s mental health, and Alan will talk about trauma and responding to trauma in the workplace. So I think that does make us very, very unique in that way.”
Listening to live experiences is central to Learning Well’s ethos. “You’re always absolutely compelled when you have listened to somebody’s lived experience story,” Kate shares, highlighting how these stories foster understanding and empathy.
Securing Sustainable Funding
While Learning Well thrives on its impactful work, funding remains a significant challenge. Unlike many charities relying on government support, Learning Well secures resources through trusts, grants, and national funders like Children in Need and the National Lottery. “You continually have to be applying,” Kate explains, underscoring the relentless effort required to sustain the organisation.
This funding directly impacts livelihoods. With a core team of dedicated employees and 58 volunteers, Learning Well’s work extends beyond its services—it’s about supporting the individuals behind the mission. “These are people’s jobs,” Kate emphasises.
Adapting to Technology
The advent of technology, including AI, has brought mixed reactions across industries. For Learning Well, technology has been a tool to enhance accessibility rather than replace human connection. The organisation offers online training sessions, making it easier for companies with dispersed teams to access resources. “We can deliver to many organisations in one go,” Kate says.
Although initially sceptical about online counselling and training, Kate has embraced its potential. “You can create that same room. You absolutely can with the right conversations and the way you present,” she affirms. For those who may not attend in-person sessions, online options provide an invaluable alternative.
Strategic Goals and Future Plans
Learning Well is not resting on its laurels. The organisation is working on several initiatives to ensure its continued growth and impact:
- Accredited Well-being Courses: Aimed at equipping line managers with fundamental knowledge on various topics, these courses focus on practical responses and signposting rather than exhaustive expertise.
- Collaborations with Experts: Partnering with institutions like Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and individuals like Dr. Diane Wright, Learning Well is developing tools such as workplace well-being audits and leveraging academic research to enhance its offerings.
- Expanding Leadership: Dr. Diane Wright, a trustee of Learning Well, brings expertise in female entrepreneurship, adding a new dimension to the organisation’s initiatives.
Kate also highlights the importance of surrounding herself with the right people: “One of my strengths is surrounding myself with the right people and looking at how we can work together to give something that is of value.”
The Power of Connection
Learning Well’s mission extends beyond training—it is about fostering connection and understanding. Whether through in-person sessions or online platforms, the organisation creates spaces where individuals feel seen and heard. As Kate summarises, “Any kind of workshop or training is about everybody having a knowledge of that kind of topic and sharing their experiences, so we all learn.”
Learn More
Learning Well is committed to supporting individuals and organisations through innovative training and compassionate guidance. To discover more about their services, visit www.thelearning-well.com or call 01606 557 766. Together, we can create workplaces that prioritise well-being and empower every individual to thrive.
Listen to the full interview with Kate Blakemore, director of The Learning Well Training & Wellbeing Centre, here: https://www.mixcloud.com/thecat_radio/kate-blakemore-ceo-of-motherwell-cheshire-04122024/