Work experience with Jobcentre Plus

ARE you an employer? Could you offer a helping hand to a disadvantaged person struggling to find a job? Jobcentre Plus is looking for organisations to help offer work experience placements for people with health conditions and disabilities.

Maurice Menghini, an employer adviser from the health and disability team, is trying to encourage more employers to take part in the scheme.

Maurice said, “Businesses can benefit from work experience placements by giving existing staff the chance to improve their mentoring and coaching skills, by enhancing their profile in the community, and by opening themselves to a pool of talented people who offer enthusiasm and fresh perspectives.

“I would welcome the opportunity to visit employers to give a brief overview of the government’s latest initiatives aimed at supporting people with a health condition or disability back towards work.

“You don’t need to have an actual vacancy to be able to offer a work placement. It’s about giving disadvantaged people the chance to experience a working environment, being part of your team and making a useful contribution in daily activities.

“Some people may have been away from the workplace or have never worked. They may have a lack of understanding of the real world of work, or simply not being given the chance to prove themselves.

“Many people are eager to develop their skills and use this opportunity to help them get nearer to or onto the employment ladder.”

Jobcentre Plus aims to  provide flexible work placements to fit with each employer’s individual needs. It is a government-led organisation, and will support employers and employees throughout work experience placements.

For more details contact Maurice Menghini on 01225 496339, or maurice.menghini@dwp.gsi.gov.uk.