LIFT PROGRAMME PUTS PEOPLE IN THE DRIVING SEAT

Carmarthenshire’s Lift employment and training programme has put another group of people in the driving seat to a new career, thanks to a successful partnership link with DVLA.

The Lift programme supports people who are long-term unemployed and those living in workless households in Communities First areas, by helping them access training and career opportunities with a range of employers.

As part of the programme, a group of four clients were given an insight into the DVLA’s busy contact centre, which handles enquiries from millions of drivers across the UK on issues including licences, road tax and road safety.

Their tour of the contact centre in Swansea Vale, Swansea, also included an information session about the kind of roles DVLA offers people of all abilities who are looking for employment.

Cllr Meryl Gravell, Carmarthenshire County Council’s Executive Board Member for regeneration, said: “This visit gave clients a great opportunity to make an informed decision about whether a placement at the contact centre would suit them. The visit included a guided tour of the building, a talk from managers about work in the centre and a chance to listen to some sample phone calls.

“I’m thrilled to hear that several clients are considering taking up a work experience placement with DVLA as a result of the visit.”

Roger, one of the clients who attended, said: “I’m glad I went on the tour of DVLA’s contact centre. I have worked in call centres before, however I was pleased at the positive and supportive atmosphere apparent at the DVLA.”

Lift mentors will now support the clients to apply for an eight-week placement.

The Lift programme was set up in Carmarthenshire in April 2014 as part of the Welsh Government’s tackling poverty agenda.

Hosted at Carmarthenshire County Council’s employment Hub, in Stepney Street, Llanelli, it aims to combat unemployment across generations of the same family, reaching and supporting those who have most difficulty finding work and who need intensive employment mentoring.

In its first year, Lift mentors supported 150 people with a variety of work related opportunities, providing one-to-one support tailored to each individual’s needs, skills and work aspirations. Of these, 20 people gained sustainable employment in sectors including care, construction, hospitality and retail.

• If you would like find out how the Lift Programme can support you to get closer to work call the team on 01554 742535.