Training = Full-time Employment

Seven people from the Caerphilly Borough have been honoured for their determination in overcoming barriers to employment – with the help of JobMatch, United Welsh Housing Association and partner construction companies..

During a celebratory presentation at the White Rose Information and Resource Centre, Ann Collins the Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough, congratulated the seven candidates and presented them with certificates for completing employment routes in the fields of construction.

Lack of work experience can often act as a barrier to employment but with JobMatch support and United Welsh developing these opportunities, all seven individuals have successfully completed work placements and all have secured full-time employment through United Welsh and their contracts with contractors.

Michelle Smith from United Welsh said: “Following an intensive training programme the trainee’s have achieved NVQ qualifications. More importantly they have all been offered full-time employment as bricklayers, plasterers or carpenters. The real test of this initiative is whether the training results in employment. The evidence so far is very encouraging and we look forward to working with our partners to create more opportunities for people across south Wales.

“We have been absolutely delighted with the hard work the trainees have put into the programme. They really deserve full-time employment and we wish them the very best of luck in their future careers.”

Support provided by the partners of JobMatch can involve help with training and gaining new qualifications, linking people with suitable job opportunities, and encouraging self-employment. It can also provide advice on available financial support, care of dependants and transport issues.

JobMatch is run locally in partnership with Caerphilly County Borough Council, the Welsh Assembly Government and other local stakeholders.

Welsh Assembly Government Deputy Minister for Regeneration, Leighton Andrews said: “The JobMatch initiative is having a positive impact throughout the Heads of the Valleys, benefiting local people and communities by ensuring we have trained people who are willing and able to fill the jobs being created from the ongoing regeneration of the area.”

25th March 2008