Since special programs available in Regina for single mothers and for social assistance recipients have not been full of late, women who fit these two categories are often referred to the existing programs to avoid duplication.

The objectives of the B.P.W. as stated in the original program proposal are:

1. To provide the necessary support services to enable women to overcome the barriers to successful participation in education, training and employment:

• counseling
• group experience with other women
• development of support groups
• flexible scheduling
• financial support
• appropriate referral
• follow-up
• advocacy

2. To provide the appropriate program components to enable women to gain access to education, training and employment:

• assessment
• vocational planning courses
• upgrading, pre-trades, pre-technology
• job readiness training
• job finding club
• work placement
• entrepreneurial business skills course
• special interest courses

3. To provide on-going evaluation of the program to ensure that it is flexible and innovative in meeting the needs of participants and the community.

By May 30, 1986, 40% of the participants had made the transition to work or school; a third were still participating in upgrading or pre-trades training. Almost three-quarters of the women plan further education, but many were awaiting course starting dates, making financial arrangements, seeking sponsorships, etc.

According to an external evaluation of the program, undertaken by the Sample Survey and Data Bank Unit of the University of Regina, almost 98% of participants contacted were very satisfied with the BPW. Most indicated that the amount and quality of information which they received were excellent and that they had experienced increased levels of self-esteem as a result of their participation in the program.

ORIENTATION

Any woman who thinks she might be interested in the Bridging Program is encouraged to register for a three-hour Orientation session. The various aspects of the B.P.W. are outlined in a group session format similar to that used in the courses them- selves. Some women may end their involvement right there, with a better understanding of their own needs and options. Women who want to participate further choose a component and register, after an interview with a staff member to clarify the choice and ensure that it is appropriate.

VOCATIONAL PLANNING/ EMPLOYMENT
OPTIONS (V.P.E.O.)

By far the most popular course is Vocational Planning/Employment Options (V.P.E.O.). During the first year, this was run twice as an evening course (two nights a week for sixteen weeks) and seven times as a day course (six weeks, four and a half days per week). During the second year, there will be twice as many evening courses and a slight reduction in full-time day courses. The aim of this course is for each participant to develop a career plan, including both short-and long- term goals, in addition to a range of personal skills necessary to successful participation in education and training or employment.

An integral part of V.P.E.O. is the establishment a personal support group that will continue after the course has ended. The first year's experience indicate that more staff should ideally be allocated to ensure that support groups continue, but current budgets do not allow for this.