Basingstoke employment initiative a success
A successful partnership between SNG and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has helped dozens of local residents improve their employment prospects, gain new skills and move into work through the Skills 4 Work programme.
Funded by the council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Skills 4 Work has provided tailored support to residents aged 16 and over who were unemployed and looking to improve their career opportunities. Participants were offered one-to-one support and coaching, training and employability related support such as, CV writing assistance, and job search and interview skills training.
Since launching in Basingstoke and Deane, the programme has supported 86 residents, with 36 participants moving into employment and 48 accessing further training opportunities. Participants completed a total of 143 training courses, helping them gain new qualifications and develop skills to progress towards work.
The programme has also delivered significant personal benefits. Of those surveyed, 91% reported an increase in their employability as a direct result of taking part in Skills 4 Work. Participants also reported increased confidence, improved financial comfort and greater wellbeing, with many overcoming barriers that had previously prevented them from accessing employment or training opportunities.
The programme achieved a 6 month job sustainment rate of 72%, significantly outperforming the industry benchmark of 55%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the personalised support and coaching provided.
Erica Watts, Head of Employment, Skills and Inclusion at SNG, said: "We are incredibly proud of the impact Skills 4 Work has had in Basingstoke and Deane. The programme has not only helped people move into work and training but has also increased confidence and employability, giving residents the tools they need to build brighter futures."
"Participants are not just finding employment but are successfully sustaining it. We would like to thank Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council for their support and partnership in delivering these life-changing opportunities for local residents."
Cllr Paul Harvey, Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, said: "Supporting our residents to reach their potential is incredibly important to this council. That's why we were pleased to provide the funding for this programme that has helped people to learn new skills, grow in confidence and take positive steps towards employment. Congratulations to everyone who took part for all they achieved."