Work opportunities thanks to Workways+
Written by Al Frean on 2 August 2017
Workways+ offers training and paid work experience opportunities to long-term unemployed people to help them on their route back to employment and has recently helped Angela Johnson, 42 from Llandysul.
Having been out of work for 15 years to raise a family, Angela was looking to get back to work once her children went into full time education. Angela found it difficult to find a job that would fit around her children’s routine and that was local, as she didn’t drive.
Referred to Workways+ by Job Centre Plus, Angela went along to Cardigan Library and met with a Workways+ mentor. They worked together on a CV, developed interview skills and discussed what kind of work Angela would like to do. Angela’s background was in hospitality but she was open to suggestions and said she would try anything.
Angela said, “Working with the Workways+ Team was great and my Mentors were so supportive. They gave me the confidence to focus on my strengths and provided practical support to get me through the CV, application and interview process. A year ago I would never have thought I would be in a job I enjoy doing. I am over the moon and this has had a positive effect on my family, now I have a steady income and we can enjoy a better quality of life. I would recommend Workways+ to anyone looking to get back into employment.”
Workways+ sourced a Reception/Cashier vacancy at Teifimania, a children’s indoor play centre in Cardigan and suggested that Angela applied. Angela was asked to attend an interview and she got the job.
Councillor Ellen ap Gwyn, Ceredigion County Council Leader said, “It is heart-warming to hear Angela’s story, like many others, who have benefitted from Workways+. They are an important part of helping people over 25 in Ceredigion get back into work, receive training opportunities or volunteer.”
Workways+ is backed by £7.5m of EU funds through the Welsh Government. The project is led by Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council in collaboration with Swansea, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion County Councils.
If you would like more information about Workways+, contact the Workways+ Team at Ceredigion County Council on 01545 574193 or workways@ceredigion.gov.uk.
