More than 250 people looking for work have been supported by a new Swansea employment programme.
All were either long-term unemployed or economically inactive – and all found support through the Pathways to Work programme.
Managed by the council, the scheme offers a number of paid work placements at the council or local businesses. To date, this element of Pathways to Work has supported 15 individuals. More are likely to follow as the scheme has been extended until the end of this year after its six-month pilot.
Council cabinet member Alyson Pugh said: “It’s great that we’re able to offer new hope in this way for people looking to get into work.”
In Swansea, Pathways to Work – funded by the UK Government – is open to local residents who are either long-term unemployed or aged 16-plus and economically inactive. It offers employability support, support for improving skills (including digital skills), volunteering and paid placements.
The local scheme has received £754,186 from the UK Community Renewal Fund. It’s open to all ages who are economically inactive or long-term unemployed.
Ashley Norman, pictured, aged 17, of Waunarlwydd, is now on a six-month contract with the council’s corporate building services team.
Conor Protheroe, aged 17, of Treboeth, has a similar arrangement with the same council team after his own placement success.
The council made a series of policy commitments in June to deliver support – in the subsequent 100 days – to communities that will make a real difference to people’s lives. Continuing to create thousands of new jobs for the people of Swansea, aiming to provide high quality and secure employment was one of those commitments.
Partners in Swansea Council’s Pathways to Work scheme include Gower College Swansea, Barnardo’s, Technocamps, SCVS (Swansea Council for Voluntary Service), the city’s NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) team and the Swansea YMCA.
To learn more about the scheme phone 01792 637112 or email [email protected].
