Our Employment and Training Officer, Gerry helped one of our customers get back into work after 20 years of unemployment.

Chris was offered a full-time job with Eastleigh Borough Council following a work experience placement with the Parks team at the council.

Our Employment and Training team has developed a relationship with Eastleigh Borough Council, through the Eastleigh Steering Group. Through fantastic joint working, Gerry was able to nominate Chris for a work placement with help from Job Centre Plus.

Gerry said: “This partnership meant Chris had access to excellent and successful support. After one week’s trial Eastleigh Borough Council wanted to offer Chris a job. They assisted him with his formal application as he has poor literacy and he has now officially started full-time employment.

“I’m really proud of how he’s embraced this job in such a positive way and how committed he is. His attitude has been brilliant and he’s getting his life back.”

Chris told us: “I’ve not worked for 20 years, so this experience has been life changing. It’s good to wake up every day and have a job to go to. It’s not only changed my finances, it’s given me a purpose and I love being praised for the work that I do.”

If you would like to know more about our employment and training service, visit one of our job clubs, or get in touch.