Wolverhampton residents have picked up jobs with the city council’s Public Realm Services thanks to a fast track training programme for the unemployed. The unique course was coordinated by City of Wolverhampton Council’s Economic Inclusion Service in partnership with Wolverhampton Adult Education Services, Public Realm Services, YOO Recruitment, and Low Hill & Park Village Employment & Enterprise Group.
It saw 13 unemployed residents cover areas such as horticulture, health and safety & risk assessments, confidence building & interview skills, and practical work experience with public realm services, over three weeks.
All the participants were registered with YOO Recruit as part of the programme and already three of the participants have been placed into vacancies with the council, while a further three are awaiting feedback from interviews.
Orrett Knight said: “The support I have received has been great, it is the best thing I have ever done. It really enhanced my skills and now I am working for City of Wolverhampton Council. I am so overjoyed.”
Fellow participant Carl Bannister added: “The public realm training programme has helped me so much, I have gained skills, training, confidence, and work experience which has led to employment at the council. I am really pleased and would recommend this type of support to others.”
Head of Public Realm Services, Steve Woodward, said: “We have been happy to participate in the programme.
“The confidence these taster sessions have given to local, unemployed participants will benefit not only us as an organisation, but each one of them as they gained confidence that has encouraged them to register with YOO Recruit and to seek employment.
“Each of the team has received a pair of free safety boots, which will also help them in preparation for when they are successful in getting paid work.
“Anything that will help to prepare local people to gain local jobs is great for Wolverhampton.”