We are committed to empowering individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, offering tailored mentoring, training, and consultancy services geared towards positive reintegration. With a focus on life skills, personal growth, employability, and a whole society approach to rehabilitation.
Anabranch Meaning
The word "Anabranch" refers to a branch of a river that separates and flows away from the main channel, only to rejoin it further downstream.
Just as an anabranch diverges from the main river, individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system often find themselves on a detour from the mainstream path of society.
At Anabranch Plus, we recognise that these divergent paths, while challenging, are not permanent. Our goal is to serve as the "plus“, the guiding force that reconnects these individuals with the main course of life, empowering them to navigate their way back to a fulfilling and productive journey.
Our Services
Mentoring
Empowerment Academy
Empowerment Academy
Our mentoring program is designed with a symbiotic relationship with our workshops, where a holistic and professional supportive structure provides participants with a powerful lifeline.
Empowerment Academy
Empowerment Academy
Empowerment Academy
Our Empowerment Academy has a clear focus on providing prison leavers with essential life skills for successful reintegration and navigating the internal and external challenges they are facing.
Digital Skills
Empowerment Academy
Employment Workshops
We created our Digital Bridges series to prepare participants for the tech-driven job market of today and tomorrow.
Employment Workshops
Subject Matter Experts
Employment Workshops
Our Employability workshops ensure our participants are equipped with the right skills and knowledge to navigate a competitive job market.
Subject Matter Experts
Subject Matter Experts
Subject Matter Experts
Our experienced SME's which can support your CJS initiatives, social value commitments, and help design reintegration programmes.
Our Mentoring Services
At Anabranch Plus, our commitment goes beyond workshops, we provide expert mentoring services that support participants every step of the way. Led by our founder Omar Mentesh, our mentoring programs are deeply rooted in social value and a genuine understanding of the journey toward rehabilitation and reintegration. With extensive lived and professional experience within the criminal justice system, Omar has guided countless individuals as they rebuild their lives. His insights into the challenges faced by prison leavers form the foundation of our mission to create meaningful second chances.
We’re proud to collaborate with a skilled and compassionate team of experts, each bringing specialised knowledge to our programs. Our mentors work closely with participants, both during and beyond our workshops, ensuring they receive the guidance, encouragement, and tools they need to succeed.
Our core team includes:
- An Adult Social Worker with vast experience in supporting adults with complex needs, bringing essential insights into personalised support.
- A Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) with over 20 years of expertise, dedicated to helping individuals overcome educational and developmental challenges.
- Business Mentors who are members of the Association of Business Mentors, offering professional insights and advice on career development.
- Experienced Peer-Mentors who have first-hand knowledge of the reintegration process, providing invaluable support and guidance to help participants navigate similar paths.
Digital Bridges
Our Digital Bridges workshops equip participants with critical digital skills needed to succeed in an increasingly tech-driven world. Each session is designed to bridge the digital divide, preparing individuals with practical skills to navigate the virtual workplace and the evolving demands of Industry 4.0.
1. Digital Skills for Everyday Life
Description:
This workshop provides foundational digital skills essential for today’s everyday tasks, from online communication to digital safety. Participants will learn to confidently use basic digital tools and platforms, manage personal information online, and navigate common tech challenges.
Key Takeaways:
- Practical digital skills for daily use, including online communication and file management.
- Best practices for digital safety and data protection.
- Familiarity with basic applications to support both personal and professional tasks.
2. Unlocking Your Potential: Thriving in the Virtual Workplace
Description:
In this workshop, participants gain the skills needed to excel in a virtual work environment. Covering everything from virtual meetings to digital collaboration tools, this session helps attendees develop a professional virtual presence and become effective, productive remote employees.
Key Takeaways:
- Virtual communication and interview skills.
- Hands-on experience with key remote work tools like Microsoft Teams.
- Tips for creating an effective and professional virtual workspace.
3. Industry 4.0 – Your Gateway to New Opportunities
Description:
Designed for those looking to thrive in the evolving landscape of Industry 4.0, this workshop introduces participants to the digital revolution transforming industries. Attendees learn about emerging technologies and roles, explore the key skills required, and create a Personal Development Plan tailored to Industry 4.0 opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding of Industry 4.0 technologies like AI, IoT, and automation.
- Insights into how jobs are changing and the new roles emerging.
- Personalised plan for developing relevant Industry 4.0 skills.
Empowerment Academy
Our Empowerment Academy provides workshops focused on building essential live and living skills. These sessions are designed to enhance personal confidence, communication, and goal setting, empowering participants to thrive in a post release world.
1. Pathways to Positive Change: A Workshop for Personal Growth and Community Reintegration
Description:
This workshop is designed to support individuals as they prepare to re-enter their communities with confidence and purpose. Through interactive sessions, participants explore self-identity, build positive relationships, set personal goals, and learn strategies for resilience and community engagement. This journey of self-discovery empowers attendees to make positive choices, contribute meaningfully to society, and build a foundation for long-term growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the importance of self-identity and personal transformation.
- Overcoming personal barriers and building strong, supportive relationships.
- Goal-setting techniques for personal and professional growth, using the SMART framework.
- Developing resilience and finding ways to positively impact the community.
2. Personal and Professional Development
Description:
This foundational workshop supports participants in setting and achieving personal and career goals. Through activities like creating a Personal Development Plan (PDP) and conducting a personal SWOT analysis, attendees build a roadmap for their growth journey.
Key Takeaways:
- Goal-setting techniques for both personal and professional growth.
- Practical tools, including a PDP, to guide continued development.
- Insights into strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
3. Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution
Description:
Participants in this workshop will develop the skills needed to communicate effectively and manage workplace conflicts constructively. With a focus on adapting communication styles and resolving challenges, attendees will gain tools to navigate complex workplace interactions.
Key Takeaways:
- The five stages of the communication process.
- Strategies for overcoming communication barriers.
- Conflict resolution techniques for positive workplace relationships.
4. Crafting Your Compelling Brand: The Power of Storytelling
Description:
This interactive workshop helps participants define their unique personal brand and learn storytelling techniques to convey it effectively. From identifying core values to crafting a memorable brand statement, attendees will leave with a stronger sense of identity and purpose.
Key Takeaways:
- Building an authentic personal brand aligned with core values.
- Storytelling techniques to make your brand memorable.
- Visual branding basics, including personal presentation tips.
5. Overcoming Impostor Syndrome and Navigating Social Perceptions
Description:
This workshop helps participants address the internal and external challenges of self-doubt and social perceptions. By focusing on techniques to build self-confidence and reframe personal narratives, attendees learn to embrace their strengths and advocate for themselves.
Key Takeaways:
- Recognising and addressing impostor syndrome.
- Building resilience and confidence in professional settings.
- Strategies for managing and reframing social perceptions.
Employability Workshops
Our Workshops
At Anabranch Plus, we believe in equipping individuals with the skills and confidence they need to build fulfilling careers and lives. Our workshops are designed with a holistic approach to support personal growth, employability, and resilience. Each session combines practical tools with meaningful discussions to ensure participants gain valuable, real-world skills. Here’s a look at what we offer:
1. Personal and Professional Development
Description: This workshop is the foundation for personal growth and career success. Participants will explore how to set meaningful goals, identify their strengths, and develop a Personal Development Plan (PDP). By focusing on both personal and professional aspirations, this session empowers individuals to take charge of their own journey.
Key Takeaways:
- How to set actionable goals and turn them into realistic objectives.
- Using a SWOT analysis to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- Creating a personalised plan for ongoing development.
2. Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution
Description: Communication is at the heart of every successful relationship, whether personal or professional. In this workshop, participants learn the essentials of effective communication and the strategies needed to resolve conflicts constructively. Through interactive exercises, attendees will understand how to adapt their communication style and manage workplace challenges.
Key Takeaways:
- Mastering the five stages of the communication process.
- Identifying and overcoming common barriers to effective communication.
- Exploring conflict management techniques, including the five C’s of conflict resolution.
3. CV Writing
Description: A well-crafted CV is often the first step toward securing employment. This workshop teaches participants how to create a standout CV that highlights their unique skills and experience. Through hands-on guidance, attendees will learn how to structure and tailor their CV to capture the attention of potential employers.
Key Takeaways:
- Structuring a CV that effectively showcases skills and achievements.
- Tailoring a CV for different job applications.
- Tips for making a strong first impression with employers.
4. Time Management
Description: Time management is a critical skill for balancing responsibilities and staying productive. This session provides practical tools for setting priorities, managing deadlines, and maintaining a balanced workload. Participants will leave with strategies they can use immediately to improve their efficiency and reduce stress.
Key Takeaways:
- Techniques for setting priorities and managing tasks.
- Tools like the Pomodoro Technique to boost productivity.
- Strategies for balancing work, study, and personal life.
5. Interview Preparation
Description: Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but preparation is key. This workshop guides participants through essential interview skills, including how to handle common questions, present their strengths confidently, and leave a positive impression. With practical tips and role-play exercises, attendees gain the confidence to shine in any interview.
Key Takeaways:
- Techniques for answering common interview questions.
- Building confidence and managing interview nerves.
- Practising real interview scenarios to enhance readiness.
6. Building a LinkedIn Profile
Description: In today’s digital world, LinkedIn is an essential tool for professional networking and job searching. This workshop teaches participants how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile that attracts potential employers and showcases their skills. From profile optimisation to networking tips, attendees will learn how to make the most of LinkedIn.
Key Takeaways:
- Setting up a professional LinkedIn profile.
- Tips for networking effectively on LinkedIn.
- How to use LinkedIn to find job opportunities and build connections.
Our Founder and CEO
Omar Mentesh
Omar Mentesh, the driving force behind Anabranch Plus, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system.
With a background in supporting both serving prisoners and prison leavers, managing social value commitments within the corporate sector, working alongside charities, and supports multiple prisons.
Omar has dedicated his career to advocating for social justice and creating meaningful change.
Contact Us
We look forward to hearing from you
We love to hear from our customers, so feel free to contact us during normal business hours.
Hours
Today | By Appointment |
