EXCLUSIVE
Barclaycard is launching a scheme to get single parents back into the workplace.
In its ‘Back to Work’ placement scheme, launched this week as part of Barclaycard’s £3m community investment programme, staff from the financial services giant will act as ‘buddies’ to 21 participating lone parents during two weeks’ work experience.
Each buddy will provide one-to-one feedback and tips on CVs and covering letters, how to get through interviews and where to look for jobs. Several members of Barclaycard’s HR team are involved in the project.
The parents will also receive practical advice and support through a number of professionally run sessions carried out at Barclaycard’s head office in Northampton and other venues in the area.
The sessions will cover a range of topics including money management, jobhunting, interview techniques, IT, childcare options, and even tips on what to wear to work.
Jo Manton, talent and management development manager at Barclaycard, said the scheme was developed following trial runs in July.
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“Having the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life is such a refreshing experience. It is a wonderful feeling to be able to help the lone parents involved reach their individual goals,” she said.
