Offenders visit employment & training event hosted by GMPT

More than a hundred offenders visited an employment and training event hosted by Greater Manchester Probation Trust.

A range of organisations ran more than a dozen stalls and provided information about jobs, support services, education, volunteering opportunities and vocational activities.

It was the first event of its kind run by GMPT, and was hosted at the probation service’s Victoria Park office, in Longsight.

Tim Kyle, an Assistant Chief Executive for GMPT, said: “There was a real buzz about the event.

“As it’s the first that we’ve run, I was nervous about how many people would turn up, but it proved to be a real success and something that we can build on.”

John Dickinson is a team leader for EASE, part of Progress2Work, an organisation that supports people who have overcome drug problems and helps them find work.

He said: “Events like this are excellent; I think they should be held regularly. We’ve spoken to a lot of people and a great many have taken away information and advice.”

An offender at the event, found it to be a useful opportunity to find out what their option were.

They said: “I did find the event helpful and I’ve given in my details to a few organisations.

“During the time I was in trouble, I set-up my own business and what I found especially helpful was getting information about loans.”

Andy MacDonald, Offender Services Manager for Work Solutions, another exhibitor, was also impressed.

He said: “We help people find employment, access training and enrol on courses.

“What’s especially helpful is that all the organisations attending will share the information given them by clients so as to help achieve the best results for them.

“The event also enabled us to network with organisations.”

Manchester College, Seecare and GMPT’s Achieve project were among the other exhibitors.

Sarah Coles, Probation Operations Manager, added: “Three young offenders signed up for the Princes Trust’s business start up programme, several people were offered job interviews with Manchester College and we are delighted by the event’s success.”