Career kickstarted

Cliff Ellison with Tracey Richardson

Tracey Richardson, aged 26, from Milnrow, recently completed the numeracy and literacy courses that Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale are delivering free as part of the national Employability Skills Programme.

The accredited literacy and numeracy courses in Middleton, and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) in the Oldham and Rochdale area, give a chance to gain  acquire new skills, meet new people, receive further help with job searching and receive a free netbook upon completion of the course.

Commenting, Ms Richardson said: “I attended Groundwork to complete the literacy, numeracy and employability skills courses and am now volunteering as Administration Assistant for the Business Services department and carrying out reception duties. This has helped me gain new skills and new experiences. The certificates I’ve gained and the skills I’ve learned will help me greatly in life and I can’t thank Groundwork enough.”

If you are over 18 and a benefit claimant through either the Jobcentre Plus or Shaw Trust and have lived in the EEA (European Economic Area) for at least three years, you can sign up to one of the courses. Many of the students are successful in finding work.

Cliff Ellison, Executive Director, Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, said: “I am delighted to see the difference this programme is making to many lives. Tracey is an excellent example and it has been a pleasure to watch her hugely growing in confidence.”

Melissa Lord, Project Officer, Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, added: “No matter what job you are aiming for, you cannot underestimate the power of literacy and numeracy qualifications. You can work up to Level 2 at your own pace and will receive full support as you move forward into the world of work.”