Service Overview

In 2006 the Sector Skills Service conducted just over 1,000 IAG Interviews within Hampshire this included 575 referrals forwarded directly from Jobcentre Plus Advisers.

From August 2006 to December 2006 the service helped 71 people gain invaluable work experience and gain a qualification. During that time 20 people gained their first NVQ qualification in IT with another 32 expected to complete. This period also saw 15 people finding sustained employment.

The Sector Skills Service primarily deals with the unemployed and in very many of the cases depression and anxiety have destroyed the persons confidence. These people are claiming Job Seekers Allowance, Incapacity Benefit and Income Support. They need understanding and help to rebuild their self-esteem and gain some confidence to get back into work.

The Sector Skills Service also talks with many lone parents who need to start earning an income for them and their family. We also find that many people believe that ageism is a reality. While this may exist, many people are making this a barrier when with retraining it does not have to be?

The vast majority of people we speak with do not have the required qualifications and therefore cannot gain any worthwhile experience of work. Invariably these people become long term unemployed and many then suffer from depression and become long-term Incapacity Benefit claimants.

As well as giving many people the correct information and help the service has signposted many to Colleges and further education establishments local to them to retrain.

The Sector Skills Service is currently able itself to offer 35 Work Experience placements per month. These placements are Mondays to Fridays, 3 hours per day, 15 hours per week and the person is contracted to work for a period of two months. This initiative is moving people back into work.

Contact: 0845 644 1312 to arrange an interview