Local training providers offer work experience to unemployed

Lisa Quarmby and Sue Wright

Local training provider has been working in partnership with Standguide and its ‘Launch Pad for Lone Parents’ training programme, to provide local resident Lisa Quarmby, from Langley, Middleton, with a three week work placement.

The placement follows Lisa’s successful completion of Standguide’s training programme for unemployed lone parents and training centre were delighted to have her on board. She seamlessly fitted into her role and has been a great asset to her new colleagues. The work placement has seen Lisa learn valuable communication skills, learning about customer service, how to take referrals from Job Centre Plus advisors, working with customers, dealing with queries and generally helping the team with their work.

Sue Wright, from Training @ Hopwood, said: “Lisa has shone from day one – she’s been an absolute pleasure to have in the shop. She has grasped every task first time and assisted the team with various administration tasks that were new to her but now she has developed a skills set to assist her when applying for jobs. We would certainly recommend Lisa for any vacancy within an administration environment. She would be an asset to any organisation she secures employment with.”

Lisa adds: “I have really enjoyed my experience. I did not know there was so much help available to me to up-skill and gain experience whilst looking for work.

"I would recommend anyone unemployed to give the staff at the Drake Street shop a call and see for yourself just what opportunities there are. I have been unemployed since 2005 and have been looking after my child.

"I am seeking work now and I am grateful for this experience to help me on my way.

"I have access to more information to search for jobs too since working with the team which is great.”

Indeed Lisa enjoyed her work placement so much that she would like to continue to volunteer at the shop, gaining more skills whilst she continues to look for work with the help of her new found friends and colleagues at the shop.

Clare Midgely, from Standguide commented: "I started working with Lisa in February when she attended Standguide's Launch Pad course. She gained a lot of confidence from this and approached me in regards to completing an admin placement. I contacted Hopwood Hall College and discussed the possibility of working together.

"The partnership has already helped four of my candidates, two of which have gained employment within the local area.

"I would like to say well done to Lisa for all her determination and effort. I hope her story will inspire other businesses and colleges to think differently about placements and work trials and the benefits not only to the individual but to the local community and economy too."