South Yorkshire CentreMOVING on PROJECT Pathways to Work
Ken Hall with a Service User
The Moving on Project is designed to meet the needs of people trying to obtain a job after a period of unemployment in excess of one year due to sickness. Working as a Centre for Inclusive Living SYCIL has up to date knowledge and understanding of many of the barriers faced by people reentering employment.
My aim as Employment Support Worker is to provide support and guidance to those who wish to "Move On". This will be achieved by providing an 'open ended' and flexible series of workshops both on an individual and group basis in the following areas
- Individual assessment of need
- Confidence building and assertiveness
- Motivational coaching
- CV production, letter writing etc
- All aspects of job search
- Application and interview support
- Volunteering opportunities
Whatever you feel you need, we move on at your pace without pressure.
When the time is right you will be introduced to the "Pathways to Work" service entitling you to £40 per week tax free for the first year of your employment on top of your wage.
The "Moving on Project" aims to put incapacity claimants on a level playing field with other unemployed people.
CASE STUDIES
One service user after being engaged on the "Moving On" project for 4 months started work this month after 6 years claiming IB. He has started working 16 hours per week as a breakfast chef at One of Doncaster's largest garden centres. He was very pleased at getting the job he wanted, having trained as a chef many years previous to his illness. He said "I thought no employer would set me on after being unemployed for so long. I am very grateful to Ken for giving me the confidence to pick up the pieces of my life and to Pathways for making it financially possible." He hopes to be able to increase his hours in the summer, his employer has said that this is the plan if his health permits.
Sally engaged on the project in November with very low self esteem. In December I accompanied her to JC+ to sign on to Pathways. In March this year she started working as a cleaner at a local school working in the kitchen. She also does 2 hours voluntary work each week as school playground supervisor for the younger children. Sally told me "I feel much better since starting work and have other things on my mind. It's not just the extra money, though it helps. I feel useful again."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I Will the Moving On project affect my benefit?
A. No. In many cases your benefits remain the same.
Q. Is there a time limit to how long I can stay on the project?
A. No. We move at your pace.
Q. Will I be forced into taking a job or training?
A. No. We want you to achieve what is right for you.
For further information please email Ken Hall Employment Support Worker or phone (01302) 892949.