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Copeland Work and Skills PartnershipProgramme Review 2018/19
This phase of the Copeland Work & Skills Programme is now complete. Over the last three years the Partnership has worked continuously supporting Copeland residents with a variety of employability activities. A review of Programme activities demonstrates evidence of effective delivery across five workstreams, strengthening the belief that it is easier to deliver more for local people by working as part of a consortium. The Copeland Work & Skills Partnership has increased in size over the duration of the Programme, to include 20 member organisations, and remains committed to continue working together to deliver future programmes.
INTRODUCTION
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
176 individuals have engaged with a variety of
workstreams over the course of the Work & Skills
Programme
14 individuals from Copeland have nationally
recognised qualifications through completing a Level
2 Apprenticeship
66 individuals from Copeland are more 'job ready'
through completing Sector Based Work Academy
programmes
56 individuals from Copeland have been assisted into
employment or training courtesy of the programme
Employability Fund
14 staff from Partnership organisations have gained
National Vocational Qualifications in Advice and
Guidance
26 individuals from Copeland have increased
skills and knowledge through undertaking work
experience with local employers
64 individuals from Copeland had employment offers
over the course of the Work & Skills Programme
Enhanced employer engagement channels were
developed through the formulation of the Copeland
Work & Skills Employer Advisory Group
Introduction and adoption of key processes that
address duplication and collaboration within the
Partnership
EM
PL
OY
AB
ILIT
Y F
UN
D
Amy is a single mother of three children and
lives in the Whitehaven area.
In November 2017, she attended a “Learn to
Relax” group session facilitated by Howgill
Family Centre. It was at this session Amy and
other members of the group were introduced
to Angela McLoughlin, from Lakes Collage, who
talked to group members about courses that
could support their career pathway. Following
this discussion, seven members of the group,
including Amy, signed up to an Adult Health
and Social Care Course which commenced in
February 2018.
Attending the Adult Health and Social Care
Course increased Amy’s confidence and she
began to apply for jobs. In the summer of 2018,
Amy passed her driving test. This enabled her to
start working part-time in a temporary role as a
parcel courier.
In September 2018, through help from
the Copeland Work & Skills Partnership
Employability Fund, Amy commenced a
Personal and Social Development Employability
course facilitated by Lakes Collage at South
Whitehaven Children's Centre. Within a few
weeks of commencing the course, Amy applied
for a job as a Care Assistant and was successful.
Whilst working, Amy also accessed relevant
courses to enhance her personal development.
Amy’s long-term goal is to become a qualified
nurse.
Kay Wayman, a Therapeutic Practitioner at
Howgill, said: “It has been a pleasure to have
worked with Amy and to watch her develop her
skills for employment. Over time I am confident
she will make a compassionate, caring,
dedicated nurse. I wish Amy much success on
her life journey.”
AMY ASHBURNER
Stephen acquired his Security Industry
Authority (SIA) badge in 2008 and worked
until 2012 in the local area as a Security
Officer. Unfortunately, Stephen suffered from
a period of ill health which affected his ability
to work. He was a regular user of the Phoenix
Enterprise Centre Advice & Guidance Service in
Cleator Moor which was key to supporting and
preparing him to return to employment.
Stephen was keen to return to security work
following his period of ill health, mainly because
he was familiar with this line of work where
he felt his skills and recent experience may be
utilised. To be able to secure a job, he sourced
some training through Inspira and applied to
undertake his SIA qualification with Three Kings
Security in Whitehaven.
STEPHEN GARNER
WID
ER
PA
RT
NE
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HIP
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TIV
ITY
DEVELOPING EMPLOYMENT PATHWAYS
Through the variety of workstreams available,
the Programme increased opportunities and
better linked pathways into employment
for Copeland residents. An example of
this was Fiona Thompson who accessed
different workstreams offered through the
programme which resulted in her securing
employment. Firstly, Fiona was able to access
the Programme’s Employability Fund which
supported her with travel costs to enable
her to access and complete Maths & English
(Entry Level 3) courses. Following this, Fiona
completed a Sector Based Work Academy
Programme which focused on the hospitality
and tourism sector. This led to her being offered
work experience at the Georgian House Hotel,
and following this short placement, the owner
of the accommodation offered her part time
employment.
The Partnership has aspirations to develop
further employability pathways through future
Work & Skills Programmes, and identify how
clients are tracked effectively on their chosen
career journey.
Over the last 12 months,
the Partnership has been
addressing some key issues
raised in the mid term review
developed by the Centre
for Regional Economic
Development (CRED) in
March 2018.
These issues include
strengthening ties with local
employers and managing
the duplication of services
within the Partnership. The
Partnership is moving in the
right direction in meeting
both of these challenges.
It has now developed a
Copeland Work & Skills
Employer Advisory Group
Stephen passed this training but lacked the
funds to apply for his Badge. With the help of his
Work Coach at DWP and the advisors at Phoenix
Enterprise Centre, Stephen was identified as
meeting the criteria for funding support through
the Flexible Support Fund. He was supported in his
application for ‘back to work’ costs which included
help with transport, food and household bills before
he received his first pay cheque.
Stephen has now gained employment with Securitas
as a Security Guard.
WIDER PARTNERSHIP ACTIVITY
TLC Support / early interventions for clients - mental health needs
Groundwork IAG, 1 to 1, Bespoke
Health / Complex Needs
Choices 2017 - 22
Inspira Employabiliy
Training
Skills4You 1-1, Employability,
Confidence, Therapeutic
Apr18—Mar 19
TLC Lone Parents. Goal Setting, Budgeting, Mindfulness
TLC Ex-
Offenders. Confidence, Goal Setting & Budgeting
CYA Work Experience,
(16-25s) Choices
Jul17-Jun 22
Lakes College Confidence, Work Exp, Phys/Learn
Disabilities Nov 18—Dec 20
Lakes College Adult Learning - short courses,
distance learning, Higher Ed quals
Lakes College
Sector related short courses &
provision
CYA
IAG,1to1, Groups, 16-25s Choices
2017 - 22
Inspira 1 to 1, Goal
Sett, Job Match CV, Voc Train
The Key Jan 17 – Mar
21
Groundwork IAG, CV, Jobsearch,
Interview Skills Journey2work
Jan 17—Jan 21
Impact IAG,1to1, Training, Choices
2017-22
DWP Job Brokerage, Work
Experience, Work Trials, SBWA, Group
Sessions
CVS Volunteering Opportunities
& Support
CYA
Volunteering for Individuals with
Disabilities (16-28s)
GEN2 Accredited Courses Incl H&S, Nuclear,
Engineering
Community Learning & Skills
Short courses for those aged (19+)
Lakes College IAG, CV, Jobsearch,
Interview Skills Journey2Work 2017 - Jan 21
Inspira Bespoke Courses (various)
PEC Interview
techniques, CVs, Confidence Building
& Motivation
PEC Advice & Guidance
(Employment & Training)
DWP Digital
Application Support
CYA Volunteering, Subsidised
Training
Impact Budgeting
In Work Calcs Choices
Jul17-Jun 22
Choices Jul 2017 -
Impact Money Management
Budgeting & Basic Finance Advice Money Matters
CW&SP Employability
Fund Partnership Prog Jun16— May19
Skills4You Practical Skills
Workshop Woodwork & Arts/Crafts
Better Bodies Accredited
Training in Health & Well Being
Inspira Advice & Guidance
CYA Apprenticeships,
Bursary, (16-25s)
DWP Employer
Engagement, Careers Events,
Job Fairs
Impact Volunteering Opportunities Give & Gain Programme
Lakes College Employer Skills Taster courses Sector Based Programmes
PEC Digital Access, UC Applications Jan18—Dec 20
Inspira Work
Experience & Placement Support
All Together Cumbria
Recruitment Brokerage
Lakes College Apprenticeships (various sectors)
Higher & Degree Level
GEN2 Apprentice
-ships (Level 2-6) & Access
Programmes
CW&SP Employer Subsidies Apprenticeships L2 Partnership Prog Jun16—May 19
TLC Support for
Older Jobseekers, 50+ 60+
Impact Digital
Inclusion Choices
Jul17-Jun 22
CAB Budgeting
Debt, Benefit, Housing adv
specialist
CW&SP Work Exp
Partner Prog Jun16—19
Inspira Sector Based Programmes
Linked to Employers
CW&SP SBWA Progs
Partnership Prog Jun16—May 19
Inspira Accessibility
support Wheels 2 Work
DWP Intensive Activity
Sessions & Support
Lakes College 16—18 Full time / NEET Provision
CYA Alternative n/c prov (14-18s). Skills, Quals &
Work Exp
Inspira
Careers Advice Mentoring, Bespoke
support to NEETS
CYA Supporting
Young People in Care (15-25s)
Transition Project
Credit Union Access to Finance &
Money Management
Community Learning & Skills
Accredited courses. English,
Maths & ICT
Community Learning & Skills
ICT Digital Support
Targeted Groups
Community Learning & Skills Employability,
Confidence building
Community Learning & Skills
Bespoke, Mental Health / Recovery
Community Learning & Skills
1 to1, Vulnerable
Adults
Community Learn & Skills
Mental Health, Wellbeing, Nutrition
Community Learning &
Skills Short courses Parenting /
Balanced Life
KEY -Employability skills/bespoke support -Apprenticeship support -Financial inclusion -Learning / training courses -Employer involvement -Digital support -Age specific support -Stand-alone provision
SE
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HUMAN SUPPORT GROUP
Our company approached Copeland Work &
Skills Partnership about getting involved in a
Sector Based Work Academy Programme after
reading about the opportunity in the local press.
At the time we had 15 vacancies to fill including
a number of ‘walker’ roles.
We were fully involved in the process from start
to finish, including designing the content of the
programme to meet our needs.
We met with prospective new staff members
who were looking for a career in Care to help
them prepare for work. This involved giving a
presentation to the group and delivering some
short courses relevant to the care industry,
including administering medication and
safeguarding, before offering formal interviews.
Delivering the presentation and meeting the
group, prior to interviewing them, gave both
the candidate and ourselves the opportunity to
find out about each other, and their suitability
for the role. The screening process proved
effective, as it gave the candidates an insight to
the role, responsibilities, what to expect at an
interview including the skills and attributes that
we would be looking for.
Meeting people before interview gave us a good
opportunity to get to know the candidates and
assess their suitability in a more relaxed setting.
For some people, interviews can be nerve
wracking and you don’t see a true reflection of
their skills, ability and personality.
We are delighted to have found some suitable
candidates through participating in the SBWA
Programme. Overall our involvement has been
both a positive and beneficial experience and it
has helped us understand that different forms
of recruitment initiatives are available to our
company.
Leanne Scrogham
Registered Care Manager
Human Support Group Ltd
Emma Elliott, one of the candidates employed by Human Support Group following the Sector Based Work Academy
where local employers from all sectors have the
opportunity to gain a better understanding of work
and skills opportunities developed through the
Partnership. This is proving particularly helpful to
employers who can find the myriad of employment
and training support confusing. It also helps to
increase the dialogue between employers and work
and skills providers, and understand the needs of
employers.
The Partnership is playing a key role in terms
of managing the duplication of services and
increasing collaborative working. To address this,
a new tool called the Copeland Work & Skills
Partnership Provision Jigsaw has been developed
in collaboration with Partnership members. This
tool illustrates up-to-date Partnership provision at
a glance and is useful for Partnership practitioners,
such as career coaches and IAG workers.
SE
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GEORGIAN HOUSE/SUMMERGROVE HALLS
We found out about the Sector Based Work
Academy opportunity after being contacted
by Copeland Work & Skills Partnership who
were keen to run a programme focusing on the
Hospitality & Tourism Sector.
We both had vacancies that we were keen to
fill including: front of house, waiting on staff
and commis chef roles. We played a key role
in developing the content of the programme,
especially the short course training. It was
important that potential candidates had the
relevant knowledge and skills linked to the
sector and who could 'hit the ground running'
if recruited to either business. We agreed on
the following training modules as part of the
programme: Hospitality & Catering Principles;
Food Safety in Catering; Essentials of Catering;
Principles of Food Allergen Awareness &
Control; Alcohol Awareness and Personal
Licence Holders.
Prior to the programme commencing, we were
involved in a meet and greet session in the
DWP offices, Whitehaven. The aim of this was
to meet potential candidates interested in the
Tourism and Hospitality sector and to give them
more knowledge and understanding of the wide
range of jobs available.
Candidates were given the opportunity to
have a site tour of the Georgian House Hotel
and Summergrove Halls to gain an insight in to
how each business operated. This was also an
interesting experience for us as business owners
as our businesses are completely different!
Stephanie Skelly, of Georgian House Hotel,
said: “The candidates were a diverse group
of people of all ages and backgrounds. You
could see how they all bonded with each
other, made friends and helped each other
out. This included offering lifts to those who
didn’t have transport.” Over the course of the
programme we had plenty of opportunities
to meet candidates and get to know them
better. This helped them relax and give us more
understanding of what their skillset were and
what department they would be suited to.
Stephanie Eilbeck, of Summergrove Halls, said:
“Overall the experience of being involved in
the SBWA Programme has been a personal
learning curve for myself, I have loved meeting
and getting to know each individual and hearing
their stories. I strongly believe this experience
has been a great opportunity for the group as
it has improved their personal skills, given them
self-confidence, and increased their knowledge
about hospitality.”
John Story, one of the participants, said: “I had
previously worked for 42 years in journalism
and photography but this role had recently
come to an end. I had not considered the
Hospitality and Tourism sector as a career
option. Undertaking the SBWA programme
really opened my mind and I am pleased I got
involved. Securing employment at the Georgian
House Hotel was the icing on the cake!”
Hopefully this will be the first of
numerous sector-based initiatives
focusing on Tourism and Hospitality
delivered through the Partnership.
Stephanie Skelly
(Georgian House Hotel)
Stephanie Eilbeck
(Summergrove Halls)Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland with candidates, employers and support staff involved in the SBWA
AP
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Lola O'Connor, 21, from Lowca, near
Whitehaven, is an apprentice chef who has
shone in her training in The Green Room
restaurant at Rosehill Theatre. On the cusp of
her level three apprenticeship, she has already
become a key member of the team. She is
constantly learning from head chef Jon Fell
and sous chef Richard Cleaver, alongside the
Hospitality Manager Tash de Brito, and together
they produce first-class food prepared with
imagination and quality ingredients, many of
which are locally sourced.
The restaurant opened in June 2017 as part of
the Reimagined Rosehill £3m transformation,
which was previewed by HRH The Prince of
Wales. The restaurant is an important facility for
training and developing catering and hospitality
students, in association with Lakes College West
Cumbria, as well as giving many of these young
people their first jobs. In the year that she has
been at The Green Room, Lola has developed
her skills and confidence to such an extent that
she now manages her own section.
The delicious results of her training can be
seen and tasted on the restaurant's regular
menus, including lunch, dinner, lighter bites and
afternoon tea, and also at numerous special
themed events hosted by the restaurant and
theatre. The restaurant and theatre have a
number of excellent apprentices, many of
whom started taking the restaurant on the road
this summer to offer tasters at events, shows
and pop-up sessions to shout loud and proud
about what they offer. As well as showcasing
their culinary skills, this also helps the trainees
to learn about many different sides of the
business. Lola is one such staff member who is
enthusiastically embracing all areas.
Lola was a teenage mum who’d “never had a
real job” but thanks to her grit, determination
and humour she has been able to balance family
and work life and has excelled in her training.
She admits to having had no real cookery
skills when she started - they extended to little
more than cooking chicken nuggets - yet as a
level two apprentice chef about to progress
to level three, she now manages the starters
and desserts section. The fact that she has
responsibility for this is a measure of the trust
and respect that she has earned among the
team.
It hasn't been easy, particularly with a child
to look after, but Lola was determined to
knuckle down and commit to her studies.
Everything she learns is taught in the kitchen
and she has regular assessments through Lakes
College West Cumbria. Her progress has been
admirable, particularly with the demands placed
on a young mum.
She has a questioning attitude, which is
encouraged, and works methodically. She
also displays initiative beyond her years and
experience. When she saw that macaroons
were being served with hot drinks after a
meal, unprompted she researched recipes and
decided to produce her own. These delicious
items have become a staple addition to the
daily menu and producing them in house is also
a cost saving. Lola would eventually like to
LOLA O’CONNOR
AP
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that she is producing now in The Green Room
as part of her apprenticeship will undoubtedly
be the springboard for her to progress.
She said: “At first I didn’t know what I wanted
to do, I had no real cookery skills and wouldn’t
touch fish. Once my little boy was at nursery
I wanted to make a go of something I was
interested in. I'd studied food technology at
school and passed art with flying colours so
this job is perfect for me. I really enjoy the
creative side and I find the chemistry behind it
fascinating. I love what I do.”
Head chef Jon was encouraged by Lola’s spark
and willingness to learn and has admitted to
being “more than a little surprised by how
quickly she picked things up”. Both Jon and
sous chef Richard are proud to play a part in
inspiring Lola in her chosen career and they say
she has the potential to go as far as she wants.
Not only does Lola stand out for the work that
she does but she is also a fun-loving character
and is popular for her bubbly personality. She
exudes warmth when dealing with the public
and has a smile for everyone. The restaurant
team are all serious about what they do but
they also make sure they remember to have fun
and Lola is often at the centre of this with her
humour and sparky approach. It is these stand-
out characteristics that have no doubt helped
her to succeed under pressure and will carry
her through the toughest of times, wherever her
career takes her.
AMELIA MCPHILLIPS
"When I first started my Level 2 Business
Administration apprenticeship, back in January
2018, I was a completely different person.
Prior to starting at The Beggar’s Theatre
Millom, I had little to no experience being in a
workplace environment, or what working in a
full-time job would entail. Admittedly, I didn’t
have a clue about what I wanted to do with
my life, so starting on this apprenticeship has
offered me not only clarity with my future, but
indispensable life skills too. Every day presents
a different challenge, as well as chance to learn
something new.
"One of the things that I’m really thankful for is
how varied my work is here at Beggar’s Theatre.
While it’s true that I have to do some of the
more mundane tasks, like cleaning, I also do
online and physical marketing to promote our
upcoming shows, staff the box office to sell
tickets, and work behind the bar during events.
That’s not to mention all of the administration
work that I do, maintaining our website,
answering the phone, and setting up for the
various groups that we run! I’m constantly
learning new skills and new information about
the business environment, and I feel like I’m
really getting a lot out of my time here.
"While it’s true that my course is helping me
develop my Business Admin skills, it’s important
to point out that it’s giving me more than that.
Before starting my apprenticeship I had no faith
in myself. To my mind, I had nothing to offer,
no experience, no ambition. Starting on this
course has changed that; I’ve realised that I’m
more capable and confident than I knew. So
while it’s true that working at Beggar’s has
really helped me with conventional things I used
to stress about (like answering the phone, or
interacting with people), it’s also true that it’s
helped me on a more profound, intrapersonal
level too.
"The help that I’ve been receiving on my
apprenticeship has been a huge asset to my
progress. My primary assessor, Maureen Hogg,
has been wonderful in helping me to understand
what I need to do for my coursework, and
how to submit it. Additionally, Beggar’s
Theatre offers such a friendly and welcoming
atmosphere that I feel genuinely accepted as a
part of the team, which makes working here a
lot easier.
"Initially, I was concerned about being able to
complete my coursework while also carrying
out my everyday tasks. However, I have plenty
of time each week to complete everything,
and it’s not nearly as stressful as I thought it
was going to be. There are more than enough
resources for me to draw upon, both online and
through my co-worker (who’s done the same
Business Admin course that I’m on), so I’m
never left in the dark about any of the units I’m
working on.
"In the short-term, I’ll be working on revising for
a Functional Skills ICT exam, so I’m excited to
try and get that qualification under my belt. In
the long-term, I don’t have any concrete plans
for the future, but doing this apprenticeship has
shown me that regardless of what I choose to
do, I have the confidence and the skills to do it."
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DANIEL SEWARD
"I have always wanted a career working with
children so starting an apprenticeship at Millom
Stepping Stones has been absolutely fantastic
for me. After leaving school a few years ago, my
ambition was to undertake a career coaching
children in sport. In order to work towards
this, I undertook my A-Levels at sixth form and
was then planning to start a degree at Furness
College, Barrow, but the course I signed up
for didn’t start. As this pathway didn’t work
out I realised I needed to earn a wage and
keep myself active. Therefore, I found full-time
employment working at places like Tesco,
the local sports hall in Millom and Brockwood
Hall Lodges, also in Millom. I even worked in a
factory that made stress balls, which I wasn’t
too keen on. However, the desire to work with
children has always been there and as soon as I
saw the opportunity at Millom Stepping Stones
I applied straight away and was delighted to be
selected for the apprenticeship.
"From day one, I have felt part of the team at
the nursery. They have made me really welcome
and are a great bunch of people to work with.
Naturally, I was a bit nervous at first – especially
at interview. As part of the interview process
I had to spend some time with the children so
the staff could see how I interacted with them.
The thing I was most concerned about was
forgetting the children’s names, but in the end it
all worked out ok and I was offered a role here.
I am pleased to say things have gone really well
so far and I feel I have settled in quickly.
"I mainly work with the 2 – 4 age group but I
have also worked with the younger children as
well, which is broadening my experience. This
younger age group present different challenges
which I am getting used to, but if I am honest
my preference is to work with the older age
group.
"On a daily basis the role involves playing
with the children, making snacks and planning
activities such as making posters and other
resources. I am encouraged by staff here
at the nursery to undertake additional training
opportunities that will help me develop my role. I
have enjoyed Safeguarding training, Food Hygiene
and First Aid. I am also keen on attending some
in-house training including
Autism Awareness as this
is something I am really
interested in.
"I am the only male member of
staff but see this as positive.
As a male carer I feel I have
much to offer, including acting
as a positive role model for
boys - especially from families where the father is
absent. My skills also come in handy when we play
football outside with the children – the other staff
just leave me to it!
"Football is a particular interest of mine. Outside of
work I am a passionate Blackburn Rovers fan!
"The coursework as part of the apprenticeship
is going really well. I was
worried at first that I might
not be able to complete it
whilst working full time. I am
please to say that I am up to
date with my assignments
and on track to complete my
apprenticeship as planned.
Following on from this I would
like to progress by undertaking
my Level 3 qualification. Ultimately, I would love to
work in a primary school as a Teaching Assistant but
that is something for the future."
“As soon as I saw the job advertised
I applied for it and have not looked
back since. When my alarm goes
off in the morning I look forward
to coming to work and seeing the
children. I am really pleased to have
been given this opportunity.”
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CAROL BARTON
Carol commenced work experience at the
Solway Hall on 21st January 2019 for 8 weeks on
a part time basis. Carol is long term unemployed
and thought this opportunity was a great way
to enhance her practical skills whilst continuing
to job search.
Carol has been job hunting for some time
and has 4 years’ experience in retail through
her work at Age UK. Prior to this she took a
career break raising her family and caring for
her terminally ill partner. She regularly applies
for jobs and often attends Phoenix Enterprise
Centre in Cleator Moor.
Carol said: “It’s been really good experience as
I have never worked in an environment like this
before. I have done cleaning duties previously
and have been able to use transferable
skills in the workplace. I see my key skills as:
communication; attention to detail; being
organised; and time management and this has
been an opportunity to build on these.” The
role includes cleaning key operational areas of
the Solway facility such as reception, toilets,
dressing rooms and kitchen.
Carol’s supervisor said: “During the placement
Carol has been punctual, reliable and
hardworking carrying out tasks with a smile on
her face. When she started I outlined the role to
her and she has just got on with it! Solway Hall
is a voluntary-run social enterprise managed
by Rosehill Youth Theatre, and with no paid
staff it is all hands to the pump. Sometimes it is
difficult to cover all the tasks that are required,
so to have someone reliable like Carol has been
absolutely fantastic.”
Carol also undertakes other voluntary activities
at the British Heart Foundation to build up
her knowledge and skills that local employers
are looking for. She will continue to look for
employment in roles linked to retail or cleaning.
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LEONARD SMITH
Leonard commenced work experience
at Kaefer Ltd in its Galemire Court
Offices for a seven-week period on a
part-time basis. During this time he
proved to be an adaptable and friendly
member of the team and spent time
across various areas of the company
covering aspects like training, wages,
and social impact. This has given him
an overview of company operations
and the variety of tasks carried out
across different departments. The
placement also involved attending
external meetings to see how
companies work in collaboration.
Leonard was set some key tasks as part of the
work experience including a task on behalf of
the training department where he demonstrated
good IT skills and attention to detail, as well as
his ability to work well as part of the team and
develop good relationships with colleagues.
He also set up a new filing system transferring
paper-based records to electronic files which he
completed with very little supervision.
Leonard, who has been unemployed for two
and half years, said: “It is great to have been
given the opportunity to get a taste of working
again and being part of a team in an office
environment. I have enjoyed the experience
and was made to feel welcome and part of
the team. I was apprehensive at the start, but
my fears were unfounded as I was supported
throughout the placement. I am now an expert
in paper-based filing and have learnt about
training requirements and apply procedures for
staff working on the Sellafield site. It has given
me purpose again and I now feel I have things
to aim for.“
Elizabeth Atkinson, Social Impact Manager
at Kaefer Ltd, said: “Leonard was punctual,
reliable and displayed a professional manner
in the workplace. He was hardworking
and enthusiastic, carrying out any tasks
given conscientiously and efficiently. He
demonstrated good communication skills,
asking questions or help on specific tasks if
required. Kaefer would welcome an application
from Leonard if a suitable position becomes
available as he would be a valuable addition to
our team."
LIAM ASHBRIDGE
Liam applied for work experience at Westlakes
Engineering in December 2018. Based on
Liam’s application form he was invited into the
office to participate in an interview where he
was successful. He was offered a placement
undergoing the company's new and improved
five-day technical based work experience
programme.
As part of this, Liam learned different aspects
of working for a Civil and Structural Engineering
company. The five-day programme includes;
Project Management; 3D Design; presenting
a design and managing costs of a project,
whilst working in an office environment
with colleagues of all levels of discipline and
experience.
Liam’s attitude towards his work was
exceptional. He was punctual every day and got
to work with no issues. Liam has a great work
ethic. We sat with Liam initially at the beginning
of the week and introduced him to the work
programme he would be following and anything
he didn’t understand he was able to let us know
and ask questions.
North Press Printers, Cleator Moor - www.northpress.co.uk
01946 598300info@copeland.gov.ukwww.copeland.gov.ukD @copelandbc
Copeland Borough CouncilThe Copeland CentreCatherine StreetWhitehavenCumbria, CA28 7SJ
Funded by
Once Liam was happy that he knew what he
was doing he produced a high standard of
technical work. Liam adapted to the office
environment well and he was polite and friendly
towards other members of staff.
Liam said: "It was a great placement with
lots of variety; I worked on CAD, developed
PowerPoint presentations and went on visits
with colleagues. I received lots help when
I needed it and I feel that I have learned
lots about how the work-place operates in
that sector. I have also learned more about
employers’ expectations and definitely feel
more confident. It’s a great addition to my CV."
Claire Murphy, of Westlakes Engineering, said:
"We would be happy to have Liam with us again
should he ever need to gain further experience
in Civil and Structural Engineering should the
opportunity arise."
Caroline found out about the work experience
opportunity at the Original Factory Shop in
Egremont after chatting to one of the advisors
at DWP. She hadn’t been in work for 18 years
as she had spent this time raising her family.
Caroline began the work placement on 28th
August 2018 for six-weeks on a part-time basis.
She was quite nervous at first and found it
difficult to interact with other members of the
team so spent most of this time working in the
warehouse area of the shop where it was quiet
and to help build up her confidence.
As the placement progressed, Caroline’s
confidence grew, so much so that when a job
became available she decided to submit an
application. Caroline impressed the interviewees
and when the work experience ended she
progressed into a permanent part-time job
which commenced on 30 September. Since
starting, she has gained experience working
across all the different departments on the shop
floor and is a key member of the team.
Caroline’s main remit is to manage the footwear
and fashion department. This involves tasks
such as processing deliveries; merchandising;
recovery and supporting the leaflet launch
every two weeks.
Caroline said: “It was really daunting at first
going back into the workplace. I wasn’t very
confident in my ability when I started. Everyone
at the Factory Shop has been great though and
have helped me through the last few months.
When I have been stuck or had a wobble they
have always been there. I couldn’t have asked
for any more. Before having my family I used to
do café work and I also worked in an off-licence.
This is very different, but I really like it. It’s like
being part of a big family working here.”
Deb Miller, Manager at the Original Factory
Shop, said: “I’m really pleased with the progress
Caroline is making. Since starting she has really
flourished and is an asset to the team. She is
great with customers and often goes above and
beyond her role. Sometimes she has even taken
shopping home for customers! I can’t ask for
any more really.”
Since starting work at the Factory shop
Caroline’s husband has also moved into
employment.
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CAROLINE McCRICKARD
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