Cygnet Raglan House, a 25-bed high support inpatient rehabilitation (level 2) service for women with mental health needs, recently honoured five service users who achieved an AQA accreditation.
The AQA Unit Award Scheme provides individuals with the chance to develop new skills and gain formal recognition for their achievements in a structured and supportive setting.
The programme is designed to empower the individuals supported at the Cygnet Health Care service, boost their confidence, and equip them with valuable knowledge for their futures.
Service users successfully completed a variety of AQA modules, spanning from practical qualifications in social care to creative endeavours like story-writing.
Gemma Goode, Occupational Therapy Assistant and AQA Coordinator at Cygnet Raglan House, reflected on the service users’ achievements.
She said: “Developing these skills is about so much more than just earning certificates; it represents personal growth, building confidence, and taking meaningful, proactive steps towards the future.
“The sheer variety of subjects completed highlights the diverse talents and interests of our learners. We cannot wait to see where their newly unlocked talents take them next.”
Rabia, an individual supported at the West Midlands-based service, is one of the keen participants in the AQA Unit Award Scheme and most recently completed a Poetry module.
“I have completed other subject modules before. I feel like I have learnt so many things and I want to learn more,” explained Rabia.
“My favourite part of the programme was being inspired by others here at Cygnet Raglan House and I enjoyed being able to achieve something.”
Looking to the future, Rabia shared her aspirations: “I have always wanted to do something creative and inspiring. I want to get a laptop and start creative writing. I want to write my own book full of my anecdotes, jokes and some of my experiences.”
The Cygnet Health Care service recently held a heart-warming graduation ceremony to honour the achievements of the service users, with Rabia celebrating alongside her son, staff and fellow patients.
Five individuals graduated, each receiving a certificate to symbolise their commitment to growth and learning, before enjoying some music and cake.
“A huge congratulations to all of our wonderful graduates. The graduation ceremony was a powerful testament to the dedication, resilience, and hard work shown by everyone involved,” explained Gemma.
“The success of our graduates is highly deserved, and every single one has shown immense commitment to their learning and development. The whole team at Cygnet Raglan House are incredibly proud of their achievements, their hard work and the inspiring determination they’ve displayed.”