Seeing is Believing Programme‘Getting Ready for Work’

Martyn Strike, NPT PCA Conference

Roisin Currie, Greggs 15th March 2013

Volunteers

Launch of the Programme

• Programme launched in 2012• Completed 2 cohorts (Gateshead &

Newcastle) in April and October• Number of attendees:

• Gateshead – 18 participants• Newcastle – 19 participants

Content

• Programme consists of 5 modules which focus on CV and interview skills

• Building the participant’s confidence underpins all the sessions

• Designed to help the participants breakdown the barriers they feel may prevent them from obtaining a job

• The 6th session is about ‘celebrating success’ when certificates are issued to the participants who have completed the sessions

Feedback

• Overall feedback was extremely positive with successful outcomes:

Found Employment

Entered Training

Volunteering Job Seeking

%age

Newcastle 2 3 1 2 44%

Gateshead 2 3 2 37%

What the participants have said

I have learned that a criminal record need not be a barrier that stops you finding work. A good attitude and positive thinking can get you a job

I feel more confident

meeting an employer

I have learned about further progression to getting work i.e. courses, help with CVs

I have learned that my conviction should not hold me back from getting a job if I can sell myself an interview

Next Steps

• Plan for 2013 is to deliver the sessions to cohorts in Northumberland and Sunderland

• Dates have been planned for April & September

• Continuing to encourage other volunteers to join and be part of the delivery

• Working with Pertemps to further support the participants