A new supported employment programme in Bridgend has brought together local businesses in a collaborative effort to boost employment. The initiative, known as Quickstart, is a 22-week paid work placement funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. It aims to support unemployed individuals aged 16 and above by providing them with valuable work experience, enhancing their employability skills, and increasing their chances of securing permanent employment. The programme will support up to 100 participants over the next six months, offering them 25 hours of paid work per week at the relevant national minimum wage for their age group.
Collaborative Effort to Boost Employment
The Quickstart programme is being delivered by Whitehead Ross Education, an organization known for its adult education and social service provision. This initiative is designed to help local people gain valuable experience and develop new skills that will aid them in finding full-time employment. Councillor Jane Gebbie, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Social Services, Health and Wellbeing, expressed her support for the programme, highlighting its potential to complement existing employment and training support services in the county borough.
Employers from across Bridgend County Borough have joined forces to support this programme. They will interview applicants using their usual processes before appointing those deemed most suitable for the roles. This collaborative effort not only benefits the participants but also helps local businesses by providing them with a pool of motivated and trained individuals ready to contribute to their operations.
Ian Ross, CEO of Whitehead Ross Education, emphasized the importance of the Quickstart programme in reducing economic inactivity. By providing intensive employment support for those furthest from the labour market, the programme aims to create job opportunities and boost community cohesion. Participants will also have the chance to gain new qualifications through accredited training opportunities, further enhancing their employability.
Enhancing Employability Skills
The Quickstart programme is a significant step towards addressing unemployment in Bridgend. By offering paid work placements, the programme provides participants with practical experience that can be crucial in securing permanent employment. The participants will work 25 hours per week and receive the relevant national minimum wage for their age group, ensuring they are fairly compensated for their efforts.
In addition to work experience, the programme offers accredited training opportunities. These training sessions are designed to equip participants with new skills and qualifications that will enhance their employability. This dual approach of practical experience and formal training ensures that participants are well-prepared to enter the job market and succeed in their chosen careers.
The support from local businesses is a testament to the community’s commitment to addressing unemployment. By participating in the Quickstart programme, businesses are not only helping individuals gain employment but also contributing to the overall economic development of the region. This collaborative effort is a win-win situation for both the participants and the local businesses.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
The launch of the Quickstart programme has been met with enthusiasm from both participants and local businesses. The programme’s focus on providing practical work experience and accredited training is expected to have a positive impact on the employability of the participants. By supporting up to 100 individuals over the next six months, the programme aims to make a significant dent in the unemployment rate in Bridgend.
Councillor Jane Gebbie highlighted the programme’s alignment with the council’s Economic Strategy and Wellbeing Assessment. The Quickstart service complements existing initiatives like Employability Bridgend, which provides a range of employment and training support to residents across the county borough. This holistic approach ensures that participants receive comprehensive support in their journey towards full-time employment.
The future prospects of the Quickstart programme look promising. With the continued support of local businesses and the dedication of Whitehead Ross Education, the programme is well-positioned to achieve its goals. By reducing economic inactivity and providing valuable employment opportunities, Quickstart is set to make a lasting impact on the community.
