The project began in April 2023. The team is made up of mentors and support staff. They support people to improve their employability skills. This should, in turn, help them gain employment.
Communities for Work + (CfW+) is a Welsh Government funded project, delivered by Ceredigion County Council. CfW+ support is available for all people aged over 16 years old and living in Wales who are not in education, employment, or training, however the primary focus should be to support those who are most at risk of disadvantage.
Mentors provide 1:1 support for participants with writing CV’s, undertaking mock interviews, up-skilling and funding a wide variety of training including help with starting up their own business. The team are looking forward to building on this success for the next 12 months to help residents of Ceredigion find employment and to reduce poverty.
One participant said, “I want to thank you and your team for helping me through this and of course funding it! Huge thanks to my mentor for putting up with me. She's been brilliant. I can support my family now that I have regained my confidence and have secured a regular income after being out of work for a while.”
With the support of the project, participants have entered employment and others have entered volunteering placements, paid work opportunities or training. Training courses range from First Aid qualifications, retail or healthcare, construction safety cards and even HGV driver training.
Councillor Wyn Thomas, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Learning Services and Lifelong Learning said, “The project can help to source volunteering opportunities, paid work experience placements, employment opportunities and have good contacts with local employers. The project offers a positive opportunity for people.
If you think the project may be able to help you or if you would like more information, contact the team on 01970 633422 or email TCC-EST@ceredigion.gov.uk.
In addition, get in touch if you are an employer and have any opportunities for participants to undertake work experience or a paid work opportunity (funded by Communities for Work +).