A new work experience grant set up by West Lothian Council has brought long term success for three quarters of those who have taken part
Now the council is keen to encourage private industry to take up the new Employment Pathway Grant as a way connecting jobseekers to careers in the county.
It is one of several successes of the council’s Access2Employment team in the last year.
George Scott, the council’s Employability Manager told councillors: ”Following the successful delivery of Paid Work Placements last year, we have launched an Employability Pathway Grant this October.
“Last year we supported both Third Sector organisations and business to create and support forty, three month work opportunities in a six-month period.
“ Evaluation demonstrated that 78% of participants moved into a positive destination with 73% into employment and 5% into education.
“This complements the wider support currently delivered and provides valuable work opportunities for individuals and for business development.”
Based on this experience and learning, as well the council’s need to comply with Scottish Government funding criteria it has formalised the Employment Pathway Grant for private business and the Third Sector.
Other projects undertaken by the team this year have included an employability practitioners conference in September. The conference welcomed around 100 practitioners, coming from the council, third sector, and private sector. It provided an opportunity to share best practice and identify potential opportunities to work together.
Thirty-five local businesses attended a jobs fair set up early last month and the event attracted more than 100 people looking to match skills and improve job prospects.
Councillor Craig Meek said: “ It certainly is good work, thanks to you and the team for making it all happen.”
Councillor Susan Manion chairing the meeting said that the work of the team was crucial in tackling child poverty by creating employability. “We know a wage coming in is crucial to tackling child poverty.”
After the meeting a West Lothian Council spokesperson hailed the success of the jobs fair and said: “We would like to thank everyone who attended the latest jobs fair. Amazon and Lothian Country Buses were first time attendees and there was great representation from sectors including care, recruitment agencies, manufacturing, and our key partners.
“If you would like to speak to a professional career’s advisor, the Access2Employment team of professional employment advisers offer tailored support to help its clients secure new or better employment, training or educational opportunities. You can find more on their services, please see the West Lothian Council website.”
By Stuart Sommerville Local Democracy Reporter
