A helping hand into work

At a time when prices seem to be spiraling so high that even a bag of tea bags can be out of reach, those of us who are in work may feel thankful that we at least have a regular income.

But for some people, the world of work can be hard to reach. Illness, poor mental health, disability, and lack of experience are just a few of the issues that can act as barriers to the workplace. Sometimes, just the process of finding and applying for a job can feel impossible.

For people who feel cut off from the workplace but would like to find work, Alison Willis of Stroud Valleys Project offers a helping hand. As part of the Gloucestershire Employment and Skills Hub Outreach Project (ESHO), SVP’s employment and skills coordinator Alison works with people to help them find a job that suits their skills and experience. The service is open to anyone who is currently unemployed and who doesn’t have a requirement to work by the Jobcentre.

“I work with people to help them recognise their skills, and to support them to find a paid role with a considerate employer” explains Alison. “For some, this will mean taking a first step into voluntary work or brushing up skills on a training course, for others it’s giving that little bit of practical help with applications and interviews that can seem so daunting. I’m not looking for ‘any old job’ to get people into the labour market; quite the opposite. By talking to people and to employers, I can help people find a job that is right for them.”

Alison holds a regular drop-in session at the Arkell Centre in Nailsworth on the first Monday of each month from 10 – 11.30am - you don’t need to book, just come and say hello.

If you’d like to reach Alison directly, her email is alison@stroudvalleysproject.org and her number is 07810 202489.