With more than 25 years’ experience in the community and voluntary sector, Access Employment Limited (AEL) provides a diverse range of businesses and activities within one community hub.
Supported by The James Kane Foundation, they have recently launched a project which will help young people across Mid and East Antrim, Antrim and Newtownabbey and North Belfast to develop the skills, experience and confidence they need to progress into further education, employment or volunteering.
The project will focus on broadening access to inclusive learning and structured work experience, improving educational attainment and access to accredited qualifications, and developing personal, communication and independent living skills.
Participants will have access to training and education in areas including personal development, life skills and employability, alongside OCN qualifications at Level 1 or 2. Subjects will be selected with each individual and staff, taking account of labour market trends and potential employment opportunities. Training will include customer care, warehousing, catering, administration and an introduction to child development.
The project will also provide live work experience, giving participants the opportunity to develop practical, work-based skills within the social enterprise. Placements could include the garden centre, café, online retail and giftware, as well as subcontract assembly work. Work tours with external companies will also be facilitated to allow participants to explore different career options and learn more about the range of jobs and opportunities available locally.
This project will also offer mentoring support which will help each participant develop an individual pathway action plan, identifying the most appropriate next steps as they leave school and enter the world of work. This could include further education, employment or longer-term volunteering.
“This funding will enable AEL to provide opportunities for earlier intervention with young people. Introducing them to live workplaces, vocational skills and qualifications, resulting in multiple benefits, and enabling our young people to make informed choices about their progression pathway when leaving school” Lorraine Black Head of Services AEL.
By providing earlier intervention and introducing young people to real workplaces and vocational skills, the project aims to give participants a clearer understanding of their options and the practical experience to help them take their next steps.