Reaching out in Southwark and Lewisham
The Employment Project is aimed at helping socially excluded people back to work. It is a new, Government-funded pilot designed and delivered by Thames Reach.
The project is for vulnerable and disadvantaged people who would like to move into employment but first need to develop their personal and practical skills. It is open to those living in the boroughs of Southwark and Lewisham.
The one-year programme includes peer group training, 1:1 coaching and action planning, and a residential activities break.
Thames Reach will work with people to achieve individual employment goals and to set up links with local employers according to these goals and aspirations.
The support provided through the project has four main elements:
1. A three week training programme that tackles two areas
Helping people to develop new skills for the workplace i.e. time management, professionalism, communication
Helping people to overcome personal barriers to work i.e. confidence building, positive thinking, budgeting, skills gaps
2. A residential activities break
Participants will have the opportunity to leave London for a few days and take part in activities such as climbing, canoeing, walking and team building games.
This break will give participants the chance to build on what they have learned in the training, challenge themselves, work as a team, push their boundaries and gain confidence.
3. Ongoing 1:1 coaching and support
A dedicated worker will work with participants on a personal action plan, targeting pathways to employment and making sure they develop and maintain their support structures during this time of change.
This support will change over time as people build their confidence and independence. Participants will also be encouraged to support and motivate each other through peer support groups and shared experiences.
4. Financial grants and awards
Awards: As participants progress through the programme they will gain award points, which can be traded in to purchase items in kind.
Grants: Participants will also be eligible to apply for a grant. This is to help them cover any of the associated costs of moving into employment such as travel fares, vocational courses, tools and clothing.
More information
If you would like more information on the project please call Jo-Anne Carden (Project Co-ordinator) or Adam Macfarlane (Project Worker) on 0207 096 7060.
Alternatively, you can email us at Jo-Anne.Carden@thamesreach.org.uk or Adam.Macfarlane@thamesreach.org.uk
If you are interested in joining the Employment Project please ask for an application form. Applicants will then be invited to an information day to find out more, meet with the project workers and discuss the programme.
