A
man who was out of work for 12 years has been named jobseeker of the year by
the Government after becoming a successful tree surgeon.
Ian
Lewis joined a horticultural course run under the New Deal scheme, and a year
later, gained a full-time job with a tree surgery firm in Tottenham.
He
has been announced as the overall winner at the London Employer Coalition
Awards 2003.
Des
Browne, minister for work, said: "Ian is an inspiration and shows how
people can achieve anything with determination and by taking advantage of all
the support and expertise Jobcentre Plus has to offer.
"All
the employers and individuals, both winners and nominees, deserve praise for
the great example they set to others and the important role they play in
keeping London’s labour market strong."
Other
award winners included the Metropolitan Police Service, which won large
employer of the year, in recognition of its excellent partnership work in
filling civilian vacancies. This included a groundbreaking partnership with
Jobcentre Plus.
Asda
in Sutton was named lifestyle-friendly employer for its flexible work practices
and the measures it has taken to enable lone parents, over 50s and disabled
people to take advantage of work opportunities in the store.
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