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WEP One Stop Shop considered model of ‘joined-up working’
Tuesday Jul 28, 2009
The partnership's One Stop Shop on Hampstead Road
This article appeared in the Children, Schools and Families Directorate’s newsletter in Feb 09 (Camden council publication)
“Employable, whether boom or bust”
As the recession takes hold, West Euston Partnership’s One Stop Shop services are increasingly in demand. Young people and adults are seeking advice to find training and boost their job prospects.
West Euston Partnership’s (WEP) employment and training advisors are busier than ever. The type of client that is walking into their one-stop-shop is changing too.
“We have definitely noted an increase in professional people seeking our help,” said Kay Griffiths, economic development and one-stop-shop manager at the WEP. “They are trying to get another job or retrain. Sometimes these are people from senior positions.”
“There appear to be less job vacancies around and fewer recruitment days. Jobs pages are thinner” said Kay.
“There appear to be less job vacancies around and fewer recruitment days. Jobs pages are thinner”
Partly core funded by Camden Council, the one-stop-shop offers advice to adults and young people who are unemployed, at risk of becoming unemployed, low-skilled or who are looking for a change. Traditionally, these people have few or no formal qualifications or experience.
“Some of the people that walk through our door are very capable and skilled. But our focus tends to be on the core workless population of Camden who don’t have networks and contacts,” said Kay. “Most people seeking advice are interested in gaining paid work rather than re-skilling.
David Jones, who is the Connexions advisor at the one-stop-shop, giving advice to 13 to 19 year olds said: “A lot of young people that I see don’t know how to search for jobs or fill in forms online. We can offer help with the application process, help prepare a CV, make calls and search the internet for jobs with them. We help to introduce them to the adult world of work.”
It is a tough climate for young people. “Many of the starter jobs are just not there,” said David. “But the good news is that the numbers of apprenticeship schemes are increasing and there are more voluntary work placements available. Young people are seeing the value of voluntary work.”
“My advice is take all the help you can,” said Kay. “Follow things up, pick-up leaflets and ring all the numbers, try all the advice services on offer. It is the quantity of applications you make and the quality that counts. Usually something comes through this way.”
For further information about the Connexions advice service for young people at the WEP one-stop-shop contact David Jones on 020 7388 8303. Contact the WEP one-stop-shop reception on 020 7388 6007 for adult services.
Posted by Andrew on Tue, July 28, 2009
Categories: Advice and guidance
