From the outset of the delivery period in June 2008, the FACE (Family and Community Education Programme) – a programme of The Surrey Care Trust – was in an excellent position to provide a seamless provision to learners through partnership organisations with whom a working relationship had been established through the previous LSC/ESF funded contract.

Once the current contract was confirmed in March 2008, the FACE Team members ensured that existing partner organisations were informed of the new contract arrangements.  Courses commenced from June 2008, the end of the previous contract period.

Throughout the Summer, the Team set up small pilot courses with partners – eg through local schools with community links, Probation and Children’s Centres.  It was key to the provision that the initial aspects of the programme were trialled to evaluate and agree approaches from the Autumn onwards.

Limited, targeted marketing materials were developed – initially a leaflet for use by JobCentrePlus Advisers to explain our delivery style and content of our personalised approach.

In September, as part of the current Surrey Care Trust management strategy, the first of the FACE Programme Advisory Group meetings was held – members include individuals from partner or  interested  organisations.  From the first meeting, support was gained from Business Link Surrey to provide training for learners who may wish to set up in business.  This has proved to be an excellent development and to date several individuals have already benefitted from their expertise.

Support from the Programme Manager for sub-contractors has been put in place.  Discussions have taken place relating to geographical delivery areas, client groups and recording systems.  Visits have been undertaken to ensure the Programme Manager understands the area in which the delivery will be provided.  The first courses under the sub-contractors’ remit are due to commence in January 2009.

Throughout the Autumn, the FACE Team members have continued to network across the Surrey area and into the Gatwick Diamond.  Numerous new locations and partners have been identified and further development will continue throughout the early part of 2009.