Jobseeking council tenants and leaseholders across Barnet are being given a helping hand into the workplace thanks to a new 2013 training programme offered by social landlord Barnet Homes.
The free courses on offer range from basic English, maths and IT skills to official teaching assistant and housing qualifications, all aimed at helping more Barnet residents find long-term employment. The courses are supported by a number of partners, including local colleges and Jobcentre Plus.
The training programme forms part of Barnet Homes’ ‘Feeling the Squeeze?’ campaign – now in its third year – to support residents through the economic downturn with offers of training and financial support.
Other initiatives include an apprenticeship scheme, though which 11 residents are currently receiving on-the-job experience and training towards official housing qualifications. Four of Barnet Homes’ first apprentices in 2011-12 went on to secure long-term positions at the organisation.
The social landlord, which manages 15,000 properties in the borough, also runs a number of work clubs where jobseekers can receive practical advice on gaining employment and share their experiences with other people seeking work.
Barnet Homes Chief Executive, Tracey Lees, said: “We want to do all we can to support our residents and make our estates places where employment is the norm. That’s increasingly important as the government’s welfare reforms kick in and people start to receive less in housing benefits and other benefits.
“Many Barnet Homes residents have few or no qualifications. Our training programme is really about trying to create a level playing field in the jobs market, helping people get their foot in the door for interviews and then gaining long-term jobs.