Intraining Employability, part of the Newcastle College Group, has celebrated its official launch of Pathways to Work.
Pathways to Work is a high profile, government-funded programme that focuses on supporting individuals on health-related benefits back into sustainable employment.
Intraining Employability, in partnership with Jobcentre Plus, has set up offices in all the major towns of Cheshire and Warrington to support individuals on Incapacity Benefit back into work.
Support includes help with finding employment, interview skills, retraining, financial support and an innovative Condition Management Programme, that helps an individual to come to terms with the barriers to work that have stemmed from their illness or medical condition.
Chris Bailey, CEO of The Intraining Group said: “Many people on health-related benefits are able and truly want to work, some people may have had careers in the past and their illness has forced them to re-evaluate what they feel comfortable and able to do.”
The Pathways to Work Programme includes a Return to Work Credit of £40 per week to support individuals during their transition from benefits to employment.
“Illness or disability doesn’t just have an impact on an individual; it has a real impact on the whole family, whether it is financial or personal strains on relationships which have stemmed from someone being unable to work,” said Chris Bailey.
The launch was attended by a number of local dignitaries including the local Mayor Cllr Mr Graham Welborn and employers including the NHS and Tesco.
Chris Bailey added: “Employers are fundamental to the success of Pathways to Work, providing employment, support, and realising that our service users are crucial to the success of their business.”
Richard Hatley, General Manager of the new Tesco Extra store in Gorton said: “Tesco is committed to supporting the Pathways to Work programme. Individuals that have been out of employment for a period of time prove to be some of our most dedicated and reliable members of staff.”
Tesco has confirmed its commitment to Pathways to Work by signing up to the Local Employment Partnership with Jobcentre Plus and recommend other local businesses to take advantage of the recruitment and support package available.
A second launch is due to take place later this month in Hull, to deliver this programme in the North East Yorkshire and Humberside region.
Individuals that want to access Pathways to Work are urged to contact the Intraining Employability Pathways to Work freephone number on 0800 783 5216 to gain further information, advice and support and to access the various grants and training opportunities available.
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