Employability Services aim to support local unemployed people aged 16 plus into employment whilst increasing confidence and overall health and wellbeing.

Employability is a structured voluntary placement opportunity for up to 26 weeks, designed to develop occupational skills and knowledge in a professional working environment within a chosen career path.

Voluntary placement options

Employability Services provide a range of voluntary placement options that can fit around you and your specific needs. These include:

Structured Voluntary Placements

A structured voluntary placement scheme is designed to support participants to develop occupational skills and knowledge in a professional environment.

• For ages 16 years plus
• Duration up to 26 weeks
• Minimum 16 hours a week

Work Trials and Taster Days

This is an opportunity to try out a potential employee before offering them a job and to ensure the role and environment are suitable for the participant.

• For ages 16 years plus
• Duration up to 15 working days

Young People’s Work Experience

This a work experience training opportunity for students with Special Educational Needs / Disabilities to gain skills, experience and knowledge within a real-life working environment.

There are two phases to the initiative:

Phase 1

• Up to 7 weeks during an Academic Term Time
• 2 hours per week
• One-to-one Employability Coach support throughout the placement

Phase 2

• Academic Year, up to 39 weeks
• Up to 6 hours per week
• One-to-one Employability Coach support, working towards becoming fully independent

Support throughout the process

Employability will provide a comprehensive support package for you throughout your voluntary placement journey, including:

• A dedicated Employability Support Officer for the duration of the placement
• A placement mentor
• Regular reviews to discuss progress and identify any additional training needs
• Job search support including one-to-one job search, CV building, completing application forms and interview techniques
• Access to training courses
• Access to Care Plus Group job vacancies
• Up to 3 months aftercare on completion of placement

We provide voluntary placements in a range of rewarding roles and sectors including:

• Health and Social Care
• Retail and Warehousing
• Horticulture
• Hospitality