The Telephone Skills in a Work Environment course is for six weeks and will cover practical knowledge of oral communication skills, and the recording and record keeping of telephone calls. You will gain three Open College Network Credits at level two.

The course runs on Thursday mornings from 9.30am to 12 noon until 13 September 2012.

Please phone Communities First Higher Shotton on 01244 846090 to book a place on this course. Places are limited – so please book!

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Under the UK Government’s reorganisation plans, Remploy factories in Swansea, Aberdare, Abertillery, Merthyr Tydfil and Wrexham will close over the next few months. At the Swansea factory based in Fforestfach, around 52 people will be made jobless as a result. Two other Remploy factories in Bridgend and Croespenmaen, which were originally earmarked to close, will remain open until bids to take over the sites can be found.

The Welsh Government had previously asked the UK Government to devolve the Remploy budget and factories so that it could create a sustainable future for the organisation and its employees, however UK Government Ministers refused to consider this as an option.

In a joint statement, Mike Hedges AM & Julie James AM said:

“This news will come as a massive blow to Remploy workers in Swansea, who have been agonisingly waiting for news over the future of their jobs for months.

“For years, Remploy has provided disabled people with stable employment in an environment that takes account of their disabilities, but what we are seeing now is another senseless attack on some of the most vulnerable living in our communities. The UK Government should be protecting employment at a time where jobs are hard to come by, especially as we are in the middle of a recession.

“We urge the UK Government to immediately review this irresponsible decision with a view to accepting the Welsh Government’s offer of temporary control over the Welsh Remploy factories so that a secure and viable future can be found for all Remploy employees.

“We also intend to work closely with Remploy employees, the Welsh Government and with the trade unions over the next few months to provide whatever support possible to the affected staff during this difficult time.”

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Recruitment has exceeded expectations since the Village Bakery opened a third bakery on Wrexham Industrial Estate.

The company invited Wrexham AM Lesley Griffiths to help celebrate the good jobs news.

The family firm is run by Alan Jones and his three sons, Robin, Tim and Christien.

They make premium breads, morning goods, savouries and bespoke products for major supermarket chains and their own shops and cafes.

The main bakery is in Minera and in 2008 they opened the most modern gluten-free bakery in Europe as part of a deal with the Swiss giant, the Hero Group.

The £3 million state-of-the art Village Bakery (Nutrition) Ltd on Wrexham Industrial Estate was officially opened by the then First Minister of Wales, Rhodri Morgan AM.

Then just over a year ago the company invested £7 million in the third bakery when they took over a 30,000 sq ft unit next door to the gluten-free bakery.

Originally, the aim was to employ 30 people but in the event we’ve recruited more than 40, taking the total workforce over the 250 mark.

According to Lesley Griffiths, who is also the Welsh Government Health Minister, that’s “fantastic”  news for the local economy.

She said: “It’s great to see a home grown company doing so well and flying the flag for quality produce from Wrexham.

“They have perfected the right combination of the art of the craft baker with the latest technology.

“The Village Bakery is a family firm which means they can respond quickly to the needs of their customers.

“The other great thing is that wherever possible they try and source their ingredients locally.”

Joint Managing Director Robin Jones is delighted with the success of the new bakery.

He said: “We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved in such a short time. It’s been very hard but we’ve got some great people working with us and they’ve helped make the difference”

“The economy has been very difficult over the past few years but we believe that   if you make the right products of the right quality that customers will want to buy them.

“Throughout this time, we’ve continued to invest in the latest technology whilst remaining true to our traditional values,

“We are craft bakers born and bred, but we utilise the best of European machinery to make our products even better.

“Our local sourcing policy is something we hold dear to our hearts and it’s helped us in expanding with the larger supermarkets because they are looking for quality and provenance.

“We have a passion and a commitment to making even better products and we are very fortunate that we have a great team here.

“Together, we try and improve things all the time – we are never content to rest on our laurels.”

Photograph: Wrexham AM Lesley Griffiths, who is also the Health Minister, visited the Village Bakery’s two bakeries on  Wrexham Industrial Estate. Pictured are Robin (left) and Tim Jones with Lesley Griffiths during her visit

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Last week, concerns were raised about the impact of a cut of 1.7 pence per litre imposed by Robert Wiseman Dairies.

Antoinette Sandbach AM, Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, today met 120 dairy farmers in Mold to discuss the impact that any further cuts could have on the livelihoods of Welsh dairy farmers.

Antoinette has been invited to join dairy farmers at a rally in London next week to raise awareness of the plight of the dairy industry.

Antoinette Sandbach AM said, “Having spent the day listening to the views of concerned dairy farmers, I am more determined than ever that urgent action is needed.

“Too many dairy farmers are working on the very edge of profitability, where just any further reductions in farm-gate prices could force them to shed jobs or even put them out of business.

“I welcome moves by the Conservative-led Coalition in Westminster to introduce a Supermarket Ombudsman to prevent unfair pressure being put on food producers.

“Prior to the establishment of the Ombudsman, there are measures that the Welsh Deputy Minister could take more immediately to support the Welsh dairy industry, such as implementing in full the EU Dairy Package.

“The Welsh Government needs to realise that scores of jobs and families are dependent on a vibrant dairy industry in Wales.

“I urge as many supporters of the dairy industry as possible to support the NFU’s rally to raise awareness of the vital contribution that milk producers make to the economy and local food agenda.”

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“We welcome the positive news for Wales and Welsh families of a fall in unemployment levels.

“However, the economic outlook remains fragile and unemployment remains too high, especially amongst 16 to 24 year olds.

“The Welsh Government needs to play its part in creating the conditions for economic growth by taking prompt policy decisions to help attract prospective employers and investors to Wales.

“Following the business rate review, the Welsh Government now has a great opportunity to offer incentives to small businesses to help grow our economy.”

Andrew RT Davies AM, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the National Assembly, said, “These figures give gentle cause for optimism in the Welsh economy, although economies across Europe remain in choppy waters due to Eurozone uncertainty.

“I would strongly urge the Welsh Government to work constructively with UK Government Ministers to support Wales’ economic recovery.”

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The 54-year-old father-of-two has not worked full-time since 2008 after illness cost him his job at Anglesey Aluminium.

Job applications which never even got a response disheartened him, but then he was introduced to Intermediate Labour Market (ILM) scheme run by Coleg Harlech WEA.

The scheme pays wages to long term unemployed people on specially created temporary jobs.

Robin has spent  three months working at the Tyddyn Môn farm visitor centre at Brynrefail, Dulas, near Amlwch.

It is  run by people with learning difficulties and the experience has persuaded him that a life in the care industry could be more rewarding in every sense.

Robin, of Penycefn, Amlwch, said: “Tyddyn Môn caters for men and women of all ages with different handicaps and mental issues and gives value to their lives by getting them into work. It’s very difficult for people like this to get work, especially in tight financial times, because often it needs another worker to look after them while they do the job.

“At Tyddyn Môn we do gardening, look after animals, carry out recycling, collecting and recycling clothes and shoes perhaps for re-selling or sending out to Africa. They improve compost so that it can be sold as soil enhancers.

“There are playgrounds for children who visit, walks, ponds, nice areas for visitors to picnic and a cafe,” said Robin who is soon to become a grandfather for the third time.

Born in Bangor and having lived most of his life in Amlwch, Robin left the Sir Thomas Jones school and worked on construction sites before securing a job with a local stone mason.

From there he went to work for the petro-chemical company Associated Octel at Amlwch until it was bought out and closed down. “I worked there for 25 years,” said Robin.

After a year with the ambulance service he moved to Anglesey Aluminium but because he was kept as a contract worker for four years when he fell seriously ill and could not fulfil his contract, he lost his job.

In fact, Robin almost died. “I had a dodgy tummy the night after a kebab and put it down to the kebab. But when the pain got worse I went to the doctor and he sent me to hospital at Bangor and they decided to open me up to see what was wrong.

“My appendix had dissolved and was causing my intestines to deflate. Another day and I could have been dead. I was four days in intensive care,” he said.

With 30 stitches in his stomach, Robin recovered and managed to get back into temporary work at a plastics company, but that proved less than stable.

“I hate being on the dole, it really bugs me when I’m asked ‘have you been actively seeking work’. A lady at the Jobcentre told me about the ILM course at Coleg Harlech and I said I would be interested. It’s a couple of days at college and a few days work, hopefully leading to a full-time job.”

The Intermediate Labour Market (ILM) is a scheme funded by the Welsh Assembly Government and European Structural Funds (European Social Fund), and managed by Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA), the umbrella body for the third sector in Wales.

Coleg Harlech takes people who are unemployed and and pays them while they learn skills that they can use in rural Wales, particularly in land management, recycling, waste management and agriculture, and encouraging self-employment.

Robin’s first aid certificate from the ambulance service made him a more attractive proposition for Tyddyn Môn.

“The good thing about the course is that it opens your eyes to other possibilities and gives you an insight. I’ve seen how rewarding the care sector can be.

“I would love to work as a care support worker, something that was beneficial and helps change someone’s life,” he said.

Married to Nancy, a school cleaner, for more than 30 years, Robin is convinced his ILM course may have set him up for a brighter future.

Ceri Lewis, ILM project manager said: “For Robin, working at Tyddyn Mon has opened up to him the possibility of a total career change which I really think he is going to excel at.

“For the past 12 weeks, the group have been studying for two days a week at Coleg Harlech WEA towards an Employability Certificate and for the other three days each member of the group has been working in placements across Anglesey and Gwynedd, specifically arranged to suit the skills of each individual within the group.

Already two of the group have started in new jobs, and five others are planning to enrol on different courses, as well as thinking about volunteering.

“It has been really fun working with each of the group and seeing everyone get their confidence back and discover and develop skills they never knew they had.”

Tyddyn Mon manager Lina Walne said: “He got on so well with all our service users. He did everything we asked of him and I think it really boosted his confidence.”

Photograph: Coleg Harlech ILM placement at Tyddyn Môn, Brynrefail  Robin Hughes with Linda Walne, the manager in the recycling centre and at the crazy golf course he helped build

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The award-winning Pendine Park care organisation say the £5 million centre in Caernarfon will create more than 100 new jobs.

They will demolish the former community hospital, Ysbyty Bryn Seiont, in Pant Road, on the outskirts of the town to make way for a purpose-built centre of excellence.

With so many people living longer these days, dementia in its various forms is a growing problem. It can also afflict a surprising number of younger people.

There are 700,000 people living with dementia in the UK today, a number that’s forecast to double within a generation. The Alzheimer’s Society call it the “dementia timebomb”.

Gwynfor Jones, who spoke on behalf of Pendine Park at the meeting, was delighted with the unanimous approval.

Mr Jones said: “We are committed to providing a totally bilingual, flexible dementia service for the community.

“We are aiming to support people to remain in their own homes through respite  and crisis care to support families in addition to the specialist residential services.

“Our leading edge training and staff development programme will provide a large number of career pathways and opportunities for the people we recruit.”

The 67-bed centre at the five-acre Bryn Seiont site  is the brainchild of Mario Kreft, the proprietor of Pendine Park, and his wife, Gill.

The couple run seven care homes, a domiciliary care company and a teaching care centre in the Wrexham area and Mr Kreft is a leading figure in the UK care sector.

He is the Chair of Care Forum Wales, the main representative body for the care sector in Wales, and was awarded an MBE for his contribution to social care in Wales.

Pendine Park already employs 500 people in North East Wales.

Mr Kreft was delighted the scheme had been given the green light by Gwynedd Council.

He said: “We are extremely pleased that we will now be able to make our vision for a world class service in Gwynedd become a reality.”

The model for Canolfan Gofal Bryn Seiont (Bryn Seiont Care Centre) is a similar centre in Wrexham which was officially opened First Minister Carwyn Jones.

There, the new Bodlondeb unit is divided into eight small, family-like units so that the residents receive individual care and attention while benefiting from the back-up of a larger organisation.

In 2010, Bodlondeb was named the best new dementia care facility in Britain at the UK Over 50s Housing Awards and was also a finalist in the equally prestigious Pinders Healthcare Design Awards.

Mr Kreft said: “We have certainly not rested on our laurels and the design of Bryn Seiont has built on the knowledge and experience we have gained at Bodlodeb so that we can meet the local needs in Gwynedd.

“In addition to providing world class provision of high dependency care, our services will also include respite and day service.

“They will also be closely linked with our  teaching care centre which is going to ensure that our staff have the highest possible standard of training and personal development.

The Krefts, who celebrated the 25th anniversary of Pendine Park in 2010, entered the care sector when they were unable to find suitable residential care for their elderly grandparents.

Mrs Kreft said: “I think it’s fair to say that when you’ve had a personal situation or experience, you see things in a different light.

“It was many years ago in our case but it taught us that you need the very best services possible to meet your relatives’ needs.

“We were in a position where we couldn’t really find those services so we decided to take matters into our own hands and provide the sort of care that we felt was required for our grandparents, providing us with peace of mind and our grandparents with dignity and respect.

“We see Canolfan Gofal Bryn Seiont as a really exciting opportunity to provide some new, innovative services and to work closely with the statutory authorities to make sure that those services meet the needs and the likely future needs of the people of Gwynedd.”

Photograph: Mario and Gill Kreft

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“This is very worrying news for the workers affected and their families.

“This emphasises the fragile nature of the Welsh economy and the need for Welsh Labour Ministers to cooperate with the UK Government to create the conditions for economic growth.

“I hope Welsh Ministers will provide whatever support they can to the workers affected and work to secure the future of the factory.”

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His announcement of 600 new jobs in Cardiff – made as Wales prepared to enter a local election campaign – has now been called a ‘misunderstanding’ by the company itself, Firstsource.

It is reported that the ‘vast majority’ of the jobs will be transferred from an existing operator.

Shadow Minister or Business Nick Ramsay AM said:

“This blunder puts the First Minister on very thin ice indeed.

“His announcement was made immediately before we entered a period of campaigning. Its promise of new jobs resulted in a series of good news messages and arguably gave the impression that his government was involved in some way.

“Now we are told it was all a misunderstanding. That’s a serious error that can’t be spun away with the word ‘semantics’ as the first minister has attempted. Either 600 jobs are coming – or they’re not.

“While I welcome the news that Firstsource is committed to Cardiff, the first minister should now clarify the remarks he made.”

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Leighton and Lesley met staff at the Remploy Stansty road factory site on the morning of Thursday 19th April. The AM for Wrexham and the Minister for Education and Skills took a tour of the factory and spoke with factory floor workers about their concerns.

Seven of the nine Remploy sites in Wales have been earmarked for closure under proposals recently outlined by the UK Conservative – Liberal Democrat Coalition Government.

The visit follows a series of protests over the planned closure, including a protest last Thursday over Nick Cleggs refusal to meet with workers on a visit to the town.

Commenting on the visit, Lesley Griffiths said:

“You meet the workers and your heart simply goes out to them. This is a period of intense worry for these people and their families.

“I applaud Leighton for his efforts to engage with these people whose livelihoods are under threat as a result of this unfair UK Government proposal. This marks a stark contrast to the way Nick Clegg refused to meet with them and ran away from Remploy workers a week ago.

“Remploy workers can be assured the Welsh Government will continue to engage fully with them, as we look for a positive way forward.  The UK Minister, Maria Miller, really needs to visit these Remploy sites for herself to see what excellent work is undertaken at them.

“We hope to see the next three years of funding for Welsh Remploy sites devolved to the Welsh Government, so we can save sites such as Wrexham Remploy and retain as many jobs as possible.”

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For those people seeking employment they can offer assistance and support in writing CVs, producing covering letters, using the Internet to search and apply for jobs, help with application forms and  interview skills.

An IT Mentor from the New Work Connections project will be on hand to help you with the use of computers.  Everything you will need to know from using computers for the very first time to navigating the Internet, to accredited ECDL courses.

An IT Mentor said “It may be the thing that gives you the confidence to broaden your interests, go for that job you really want, or give you the platform you need to help further your education!”

Why not call in and see them at:

• Llangollen Library at every Tuesday between 10:00am & 12:30pm
• Ruthin Library at every Friday between 10:00am & 12:30pm
• Denbigh Library at every Friday between 1:30pm & 4:00pm

The New Work Connections project is funded by the European Social Fund (ESF).  For further details or information about New Work Connections please call our Community Engagement officer at the number below, we are based at:

Community Development Agency,
Unit D, Station Buildings,
Bodfor Street,
Rhyl,
LL18 1AT
Telephone: 01745 360260

Or pop in to one of our library sessions.

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The housing association has successfully piloted the Welsh Government’s “i2i Can-Do Toolkit 2 – SME friendly procurement” to source local contractors and small businesses for maintenance and improvement works to their tenants’ homes.

The report looks over the last three years and shows that 2,581 job and training opportunities have been created by 26 organisations that have adopted the model, almost 1,400 of them in the last year. The figure equates to 15 opportunities per week, many of which are in the most disadvantaged communities in Wales.

Speaking at the conference the Housing, Regeneration and Heritage Minister Huw Lewis said “I am very proud of the achievements we and our partners have made in the housing sector thanks to the Can Do Toolkit. It is a shining example of what can be done to harness the wider benefits of contracts, resulting in local unemployed adults and young people having the opportunity to receive training and work experience, which is essential to be able to compete in today’s jobs market.”

Llyr Edwards, Tai Ceredigion’s Director of Property Services said “The toolkit has been an invaluable guide on making targeted recruitment and training a condition of the contracts. Our clear objective was to develop the local pound and maximise the spend from our housing investment. Therefore the decision was made to procure contractors for the Welsh Housing Quality Standard (WHQS) improvement works by using a framework as opposed to the main contractor model. We were able to break down the WHQS work into three defined lots in terms of value which meant bidders with different turnovers could apply for the appropriate lot. We held two ‘Meet the Buyer’ days in order for contractors to gain more information about the process and hear what was expected of them in their applications.

In awarding the contracts staff, tenants and Board members were all involved in scoring tender documents and interviewing contractors. We successfully appointed 20 contractors which included 15 Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) and have 8 apprentices employed by Tai Ceredigion under a shared apprenticeship scheme with the framework contractors. Other staff has been recruited to oversee the improvement programme with 6 Resident Liaison Advisors ensuring tenant satisfaction and 2 Project Managers with 6 Maintenance Surveyors directly managing the programme of works. Here at Tai Ceredigion we pride ourselves on using local trade people and contractors where possible and believe it is paramount to the local economy.”

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Popular video game store Game will remain open at the city’s busy Quadrant Shopping Centre in a move which will secure eight jobs.

The news was greeted with mixed reactions by staff who were delighted for their shoppers but expressed their sympathy for colleagues in other stores elsewhere who had lost their jobs.

Chris Williams, assistant manager of the store, said: “We are really pleased for all our loyal customers that the store is staying open.

“We’ve have been bought by OpCapita on Sunday and we’ve just had the news that we’re going ot be staying open and that there are no plans to close this store.

“We are one of the busiest Game stores in the region and we’re happy at the news but obviously devastated for our colleagues at Gamestation in the city centre.

“People in Swansea have been so supportive to us and it has really kept us going and kept us motivated. They have been coming in and asking how things are going and sending us their best wishes and it has really helped.

“I would like to take this opportunity to really thank them for their support because it has meant a lot to us.”

Annalisa Johnson, marketing manager for the Quadrant Centre, said: “We are delighted for the Centre and for our shoppers that Game is staying open because they are an integral part of the many varied retailers we have here at the shopping centre.

“It is a large business which a lot of people rely on for their employment so we are also very pleased for the eight people who are keeping their jobs.

“Our thoughts are with the people outside of the Quadrant Centre who have unfortunately lost their jobs and it must be a very uncertain and difficult time for them.

“But the positive news we have here in Swansea underlines the very significant and positive developments which continue to happen at the shopping centre.”

The sale of the Game Group to OpCapita, who recently bought the Comet Group, for £1 has saved a total of 3,200 jobs at 333 stores, administrators revealed.

The UK operations of the chain, which trades as Game and Gamestation, went into administration last week, triggering 277 shop closures and 2,104 redundancies.

Chris Williams added: “This has actually been a very busy time for us with the school holidays this week – trade has really been phenomenal with the new Star Wars game out.

“We’re in a good spot with two universities here and school and colleges and the central bus station next door.

“The prospects for the game industry are really good. The next generation of consoles is due now and we’ll be seeing new Playstations and X-Boxes and the new Wii will be out later this year.”

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Communities First Higher Shotton is hosting the above course at John Summers Community Campus for six weeks from 25 April.

You will gain a Level 2 National Open College Network Award in Employability focusing on Customer Service skills, which are applicable to any area of work.

The course runs Wednesdays, 1pm to 3.30pm, for six weeks from 25 April.

Enrolment will be carried out at the first session. The tutor, Helene Ramm, will ask to see proof of benefits and you will need your National Insurance number for the enrolment form.

Contact Communities First Higher Shotton on 01244 846090.

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The father-of-two from Aberaman has gained employment with Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd who are carrying out extensive streetscape work throughout Aberdare as part of the Rhondda Cynon Taf Council project.

Colin’s role involves receiving deliveries, making sure all stocks are replenished and ensuring the smooth running of getting the necessary supplies to those on site undertaking the works.

As part of the Council regeneration scheme, jobs are being introduced for economically inactive individuals in the County Borough.

Mr Barnett, aged 30 explained, “Not only is the project itself changing Aberdare for the better, but it’s had a direct impact on my life and that of my children. I was unemployed for over a year, so as you can image it’s been a very difficult time.

“The opportunity to find employment with Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd has been fantastic and I’m enjoying the work at the yard with a great group of fellow workers. It really has been a wonderful opportunity and I’m grateful for the ability to work for a living again.”

While many jobs have been lost during the recent economic downturn, the Council’s contractors continue to fulfill their contractual arrangements to employ individuals during the course of the contract.

Now celebrating the six-month anniversary since the regeneration project began, Aberdare is currently benefiting from its largest cash injection of £7.7million thanks to Rhondda Cynon Taf Council securing financial support from the Welsh Government through the European Regional Development Fund, Heads of the Valleys Programme and the Targeted Match Fund.

The remainder of the funding package is provided by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Cadw and the private sector.

Since August 2011 Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd and design engineers Capita Symonds have been working closely in partnership with the Council as the scheme develops.

The Aberdare Town Centre project includes streetscape improvements that will focus on four key areas: Commercial Street, Canon Street, Victoria Square and Library Square. The improvements will involve new footpaths and carriageways using quality natural stone paving, and new exciting features including walls, benches, steps, quality street furniture and street lighting.

The project also includes town centre property improvements, under the Aberdare Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) and Townscape Enhancement Programme (TEP). These offer financial support to businesses and property owners to make external and internal building improvements to enhance the quality of the premises and bring disused space back into use.

To date the TEP scheme has approved monies for multi-media company Tantrwm to undertake major refurbishment works to  a vacant property on Gadlys Road and the Aberdare Market Company who have been approved funding to carry out repairs and an internal refurbishment to give the vacant Market Tavern a new lease of life.

A total of 70 TEP enquiries have been received resulting in Council officers discussing the funding options available to commercial property owners including 70% funding.

For further details visit www.myaberdare.com

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Jobs Growth Wales will create new job opportunities for unemployed young people, aged 16-24, for a 6-month period and provide business with the chance to expand and make those posts permanent.

During a visit to Scarlet Communications in Carmarthen, one of the companies taking part in the programme pilots, First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said:

“Jobs Growth Wales is a flagship policy in our commitment to boost economic growth and jobs in Wales.

“Not only will this scheme create opportunities for unemployed young people, who have suffered more than most in the recession, but these posts will also be new jobs, helping Welsh businesses to expand.”

Participants will be paid at or above the National Minimum Wage for a minimum of 25 hours per week. The programme will cater for those that are job ready but can’t find employment.

Deputy Minister for Skills, Jeff Cuthbert, said:

“The current financial climate has led to the emergence of a growing number of 16-24 year olds who have fallen outside work or education,” he explained.

“Jobs Growth Wales will enable individuals to gain good quality work experience to progress into permanent employment or where appropriate an apprenticeship. The majority of jobs will be generated within the private sector, although there will also be some available in the voluntary sector.

“Businesses that take part in the scheme will need to demonstrate that the jobs we support are new ones. We will work with all employers and young people involved to do our very best to ensure there is a destination for everyone, be it full time work with the current employer, an apprenticeship or a full time job with another employer.”

Scarlet Communications, Managing Director, Jason Rosser, said:

“We were delighted to take part in this innovative scheme. Not only have we been able to offer valuable experience to some enthusiastic and talented young people but it has also given us the chance to expand our business into new areas. As a result of the programme we hope to be able to create new permanent posts and offer full time work to all participants.”

Following a successful pilot, Mr Cuthbert said a wide variety of large and small private sector companies from across Wales are interested in joining the programme, offering a range of opportunities for young people.

Examples of some of those companies include:

•     Target Group. Software and IT services.
•     Admiral Insurance
•     TB Davies in Bridgend. One of the UKs leading scaffolding suppliers to industry
•     Meritor Cwmbran. Engineering, Manufacturers of Heavy Duty Brake Systems
•     Pennaf Ltd. Housing services in mid and North Wales
•     Emrys Art Supplies, with shops in Carmarthen and Haverfordwest.
•     Cerrig Granite & Slate. Pwllheli. One of the UK’s leading stonework specialists.

Mr Cuthbert explained that the programme will also provide an opportunity to tackle some specific issues within the Welsh economy. There will be three specific streams targeting graduates, micro business and green jobs.

Young people can apply for vacancies through a dedicated web based system, Jobs Growth Wales Live, at www.careerswales.com

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That is how Shirley Medlicott from Flint described the Jobs fair organised by Flint Communities First and Job Centre Plus recently, to connect Flintshire residents directly to employment opportunities. Over 400 residents came and took part in the event at Flint Town Hall.

Local employers, who had vacancies to fill, were also impressed with the high turnout from all sections of the community.

Lorraine O Brien from Nice- Pak said:

“We have been really busy all day. We have vacancies for machine operatives and have received applications. We are also pleased to have the opportunity to promote our company on the Aber Park Industrial Estate.”

Gwen Brown, Recruitment Manager for Premier Homecare North Wales, said:

“We have jobs in support work and I expect to fill them. I am pleased with the quality of the applications from people who are currently unemployed.”

This is the second year running that Lynn Moore and Paul Robinson from Ralawise, based on the Deeside Industrial Estate, have taken part in the Jobs fair. Lynn said, “We have had a good response, particularly for warehouse roles. We have collected CVs and are quite confident that we will be able to appoint.”

For entrepreneurs thinking of starting up their own business, information and support was available from Carol Williams, from Hicks Randles, and Flintshire County Council’s Business Services.

Carol Williams said: “When people are made redundant, it can get them thinking about starting up their own business, and I have given out information about courses on offer, as well as the New Business Start-up Programme funded by the Welsh Government.”

Kate Catherall from Flintshire County Council’s Business Services said: “We have spoken to people from different age groups who welcomed the opportunity to talk through an idea for business, and to hear about the support we can offer once the business is underway.”

Connah’s Quay resident Helen Taylor visited the Jobs fair, and said:

“I was impressed with the range of information available to support Jobseekers, including tips on interview skills and CV writing, as well as business start-up.”

Flint Communities First holds a weekly Job club every Thursday morning from 10am to 12 noon at 46 Church Street, Flint. Help is available on job search and CV writing as well as Careers Wales Interview Skills workshops and Adult Careers Guidance.

Photograph: At the Jobs fair in Flint, Deeside College Administration Tutor Beth White (front row second left) with Level 3 Administration Students

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Last week during Prime Ministers questions, David Cameron did not rule out devolving responsibility for Remploy funding to Wales, even though his Minister, Maria Miller, had done so during a meeting with the Welsh Government Education Minister, Leighton Andrews, the previous week.  First Minister Carwyn Jones has welcomed the comments and written to the Prime Minister asking for dialogue over funding arrangements for the Welsh Remploy sites over the next three years.

Following this, Welsh Education and Skills Minister Leighton Andrews this week chaired a meeting with key stakeholders including Unions, the Welsh Local Government Authority, Housing groups and others to discuss all options for the Welsh Remploy sites.

Following the Sayce Review, the UK Minister for Disabled People Maria Miller accepted proposals for the closure of seven out of nine Remploy factories in Wales—with 272 disabled workers affected across Wales.

Despite lucrative contracts with Wrexham Council in the pipeline, the Wrexham Remploy Site was amongst those earmarked for closure with 52 jobs under threat. In the town, hundreds of people turned out in a rally against the planned closure of the Wrexham Remploy factory on Saturday March 17th.

Calling for ‘positive’ talks, AM Griffiths said:

“The decision to close Wrexham Remploy, along with another six sites in Wales, was a hammer blow to the people who work there and those who have campaigned previously to keep the sites open. Remploy offers a route to skills and sustainable employment for some of the most vulnerable in society, and has a vital role in keeping disabled people from benefit dependency.

“The UK Government has said itself this is not about money – they won’t save one penny by closing the factories. With this in mind, it seems feasible that the funding for Welsh Remploy Sites could be handed over to the Welsh Government remainder of this Government term. With this, Welsh Labour would seek to secure as many jobs as possible.

“I welcome the fact the Prime Minister has not ruled this option out. What needs to happen going forward is for talks on the issue to be conducted in a constructive manner focussed on the best outcome for the Remploy employees.

“The Welsh Government has shown itself willing to work with all parties and explore all options to defend Remploy jobs. The fight will continue to save these jobs and for a constructive outcome.”

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Anthony Lewis, from Chartered Accountants Coxeys which represents a wide range of clients from sole traders right through to international market leaders, said Chancellor George Osborne’s third budget should help business grow.

Mr Lewis, a Director of the firm which has offices in Wrexham and Saltney, said the main headline grabber for the area was the formation of a new enterprise zone which has been announced for Deeside.

He said: “It will help local businesses in the area prosper and, hopefully, generate new jobs,” he said.
Deeside will get one of five new enterprise zones planned for Wales. The other enterprise zone in North Wales will be Anglesey.

The zone, next to Deeside Industrial Park, will include the former RAF Sealand site. Flintshire County Council has hopes that up to 5,000 new jobs can be created in the zone, along with a possible 1,100 new homes.

The authority sees the zone as a prosperous new Gateway to Wales.

Mr Lewis said the Deeside Enterprise Zone of the 80s brought in hundreds of new jobs by offering new business generous 100 per cent capital allowances on new construction.

Details are still to be announced by Welsh Assembly Government but it seems likely they will offer tax breaks on investment in Enterprise Zone industries and possibly rate relief.

“For businesses the Chancellor has stated that he will be simplifying the tax system for small unincorporated businesses with a turnover of up to £77,000 from 2013. This would be based on cash receipts only and operate in a similar way to the flat rate VAT system.

“This would make the process of producing your annual accounts far simpler,” said Mr Lewis.

“The full rate of Corporation Tax has been reduced from April 2012 to 24% which is below the previously announced drop to 25% and is expected to fall to 22% by 2014.

“This is good news for SMEs and larger firms with higher levels of profit and will help stimulate the local ecomomy.

“The Chancellor also announced that there would be enterprise loans available for young people to start their own business and more details of this will be announced later in the year.

“I notice that the Government is also going to address various VAT anomalies with the regards to hot and cold food, sports drinks and other areas.

“Fuel and Vehicle Excise duty will remain unchanged but a freeze has been implemented on the excise duty for hauliers.  This will help with the transportation costs of businesses and hauliers in particular,” said Mr Lewis.

Meanwhile, there was a guarded reaction from both Tom Anwyl, Director of North Wales’s biggest housebuilder, Anwyl Construction, and Gareth Jones, the new Wales Vice-Chairman of the Federation of Master Builders, and Director of renewable energy systems experts Carbon Zero UK.

Tom Anwyl said: “It is disappointing though not unexpected that he didn’t continue the Stamp Duty holiday for first-time buyers just at a time when it would do most good.

“The building industry and the economy are seemingly poised to come out of recession and there’s a real need to get Britain building again.

“The Chancellor has announced extra funding to help construction companies build new homes which is a positive when experts estimate that we need to be building 250,000 new houses a year.

“As ever the devil is in the detail and we need to see whether this will happen in Wales and our only hope is that additional funding is put into construction and regenerating the economy by the Welsh Government.

“The decision to go ahead with the publication into law of the National Planning Policy Framework next week removes some of the obstacles to the building of new homes but again in Wales we need to see what the Government in Cardiff does.”

Gareth Jones was also positive about the support for the housing sector but disappointed that the renewable energy industry seemed to have been abandoned.

He said: “The help announced last week for first-time buyers and the Budget news that construction companies are to receive extra funding to build new homes are positives.

“With my Federation hat on I would welcome those measures and the reduction in red tape that the publication of the National Planning Policy Framework will bring although it is a shame that the Chancellor hasn’t extended the Stamp Duty holiday for first-time buyers.

“But from the renewable energy point of view it is a serious disappointment with no Green outlook for the future.

“Instead the Government are putting £3 billion into fossil fuels and saying they are the way forward with gas in particular the fuel of the future.

“I had hoped that green energy would be a priority but that hasn’t happened, there was nothing on the Renewable Heating Initiative Premium Payment and no encouragement for the renewable industry generally.

“The Budget has missed the opportunity to give more help to smaller construction companies. Building is a major key in starting the engine of the economy and the Chancellor has failed to turn that key.”

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William asked “Has the Welsh Government effectively directed funding to train people in the skills required by local industries”.

Jane Hutt (Assembly Finance Minister) failed to address this concern; instead she reiterated unsubstantiated policies and funding to create jobs. She totally ignored the reality the local companies cannot recruit the skilled staff they require.

“There are companies who are losing the opportunities to compete for future orders or to expand their businesses, because of the Assembly’s failure to effectively engage with local companies and comprehend the calibre of employees they require”.

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This ambitious initiative was originally due to create 150  training and apprenticeship places over three years from April 2011 but by this January had already reached 107. A total of 162 youngsters are now involved in the scheme.

Councillor James Fussell, Cabinet Member for Human Resources, said:

“Plaid launched this scheme because, as a council, l we felt it was crucial to provide training opportunities for our young people.  Unemployment among young people is too high and they must not be left on the scrapheap with no hope.

“We wanted to provide training places to improve their opportunities of finding employment and that is why we invested almost £500,000.”

Councillor Fussell added: “This scheme has grown rapidly and exceeded all our expectations. At this rate of uptake the three-year programme of 150 placements could well be doubled if not more. If that happens we will need additional finance to support and this is something this Plaid council is looking at.

“We are looking at the way the council delivers additional placements given the interest shown from the business fraternity. If the council sets its self up as the main hub and allows access to placements into the private sector, then I believe this could run into thousands of opportunities for our young unemployed.

“Council tenants have handed the authority the challenge of meeting the Welsh Housing Quality Standard. And this will mean more trade apprentices within the Housing departments as over the next seven years at least.

“If Plaid is re-elected then I’m confident that all the stops will be pulled out to ensure the apprenticeship and training scheme develops further into a borough-wide scheme with the ultimate aim of getting as many unemployed into work.”

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Do you know what skills employers are looking for? Do you need a CV and help with job applications and interviews? Then why not call in for an informal discussion with Careers Wales? All of these services are FREE so what have you got to lose?

Also available is a FREE CV and Interview Skills Workshop at John Summers Community Campus on Monday 23 April from 9.30am to 2.45pm

To learn more about what’s on offer, or to book an appointment, contact the team at Communities First Higher Shotton on 01244 846090 or Careers Wales on 01352 750456.

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AMs Mark Isherwood, Angela Burns and Andrew RT Davies, met the Minister to discuss her plans to use the Conservative-led Coalition’s £320million protected budget for disability employment more effectively.

Mark Isherwood AM, Shadow Minister for Communities and Housing said, “I understand the Conservative-led Coalition’s moves to refocus the protected disability employment budget on disabled people themselves rather than institutions and welcome the expansion of support available to disabled people.

“Disabled people have every right to access the same opportunities as everyone else.

“With funding following the individual we can support more disabled people into mainstream work rather than funding segregated factories.

“It is very welcome that in challenging economic times, the £320million budget for supporting disabled people into employment is being protected to help disabled people play their full role in the workplace.

“An additional £15million has also been added to the ‘Access to Work’ programme, which has already benefitted 1,500 disabled people in Wales.

“I also welcome the £8million to ensure there is accessible support for every disabled member of staff affected by the changes at Remploy.

“I have called for annual statistics to be made publicly available clearly showing support available for disabled workers.

“It is so disappointing that despite initiating a process of reforming funding to Remploy during the last Labour government, which led to a greater number of job losses, that Labour politicians are lining up to use Remploy as a political football.”

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On a visit to one of the UK’s largest timber businesses, Antoinette Sandbach AM, Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, raised concerns that a lack of expert knowledge in the new body could harm Wales’ forestry industry.

BSW Timber, which manages seven UK sawmills, including five in Scotland and one in Wales, is currently creating 29 new jobs at its Newbridge-on-Wye sawmill in Powys.

There are fears that the Welsh Government’s proposals could make Wales a less attractive place for timber firms to do business and lead to businesses considering their options.

Antoinette Sandbach AM said, “There are widespread fears that if the functions of the Forestry Commission are brought in-house under the new environment umbrella body, that vital expertise in the forestry industry will be lost.

“Almost 20,000 jobs in Wales are dependent on the Welsh timber industry, so Labour Ministers should tread with care to avoid making Wales a less attractive place for the sector.

“The Forestry Council Wales is an arm’s length body, which currently has sufficient freedom to make commercial decisions in the best interests of Welsh firms.

“As Labour Ministers have learnt from their previous botched mergers of arm’s length bodies including the WDA and the Wales Tourist Board, there is a danger of losing expertise and experience.

“The last thing we want to see is damage to the timber industry and major and reputable firms uprooting and transferring their business to other parts of the UK.

“It is time for the Minister to start listening and acting upon the worries of the tens of thousands of workers whose jobs depend on the Welsh timber industry.”

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Flint Communities First has joined forces with Jobcentre Plus to organise a Jobs Fair for the benefit of local residents and businesses. The event will take place on Thursday 15 March, 10am to 3pm, at the Town Hall, Market Square in Flint.

The aim of the event is to help local people to find work and to help employers to fill their vacancies. As well as finding out about jobs, residents will be able to get information on jobsearch and interview skills, work experience, starting up a business, and volunteering opportunities.

Helen Hughes, Chair of the Flint Communities First Partnership Board, said:

“The Jobsfair will give local people who are looking for work a chance to connect directly with job vacancies. The events we have organised over the past two years have attracted more than 800 people from all sections of the community and we are working hard to ensure that this year’s event will be even better.

“Local employers are keen to be involved and already Nice Pak, North West Homecare, Pets at Home, Army Careers, the Royal Navy, Premier Homecare and Refurbs Flintshire have booked stands. Recruiting and upskilling staff is very important to businesses and attracting the right person for the job is essential.”

If you are a local business and would like to book a stand please contact Noreen.ryan@flintshire.gov.uk Stands will be organised on a first come, first served basis.

Local residents need only turn up on the day. There is no need to book in advance.

For more information please contact the Communities First office on 01352 734485.

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“This very sad and worrying news for the workers affected and their families.

“This is further evidence of the fragile nature of the Welsh economy and the need for Welsh Labour Ministers to help make Wales a more attractive place to do business.

“Last weeks’ report into inward investment made for disturbing reading about the decline in foreign based businesses investing in Wales.

“Today’s news should provide further motivation to the Welsh Government to start taking action to provide the conditions for economic growth.”

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The WorkFit programme, developed by the Down’s Syndrome Association, will be formally launched during an awareness week, 19- 25 March 2012, when employers can begin to register their interest.  Local groups, employers and supported employment agencies can register online at: www.dsworkfit.org.uk.

David Jones said:

“This is an excellent work project, which will enable employers to gain confidence in employing and retaining people with Down’s syndrome.

“People with additional support needs within the workplace are sometimes overlooked in employment selection processes because of conditions like Down’s syndrome. It is therefore very important that employers feel supported by projects like WorkFit, which facilitate better access to employment opportunities for all applicants, whatever their personal circumstances”.

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“I welcome the announcement that Peacocks is to be bought by Edinburgh Woollen Mill, which is good news for the majority of staff working for the company. This is, however, tempered by sadness for the people employed in the stores that will be closing.

“It is great that the store in Aberdare will remain open, and I am sure the announcement came as a big relief to staff and their families. Many people in Cynon Valley work or know people who work in other stores such as Pontypridd or in Peacocks’ main offices or warehouse – this news will also be welcome to them.

“It is good that this much-loved brand will remain on our high street”.

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More than 10 employers will have stands, including Cardiff Council Fostering Service, Cardiff Works, care agencies, the Army, Royal Navy and RAF and Randstad agency.

JobCentre Plus, Career Wales, Rathbones, Kaleidoscope and other advice organisations will be on hand to help with CVs and job applications as well as give advice on training and development.

There’s also an opportunity to find out more about the Llanrumney Community Hub (formerly the library) and a chance to meet the local Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs).

Tea, coffee and a lunch buffet will be available.

Deputy Leader of Cardiff Council, Councillor Judith Woodman, said: “In these tough economic times, when career opportunities are at a premium, it is extremely important that everyone is equipped with the right skills when it comes to getting ahead. I would encourage residents who are looking for employment, or anyone who wants to find out about the opportunities open to them to come along on the day.”

For further information please contact Sara on 029 2053 7002 or sboome@cardiff.gov.uk

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Jeff Cuthbert AM said:

‘This is absolutely brilliant news and a huge relief for residents, those employed in the two shops and distribution centre and the local economy. Closures or job losses would have really hit families in Caerphilly area hard and affected the great work that has already gone into the Bargoed town centre Regeneration project.

‘However my heart goes out to other areas and employees which weren’t so fortunate. There will still be 224 stores closing and 3,100 job losses which is devastating for an already floundering economy, which the Tory-Liberal coalition are doing their best to wreck the recovery of.

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As part of Nick Clegg’s Youth Contract, the Coalition Government will, for the first time, target funding through tailored support on a payment-by-results system to 16 and 17-year-olds with no GCSEs at A* – C who are at the highest risk of long-term disengagement.

Commenting, Jenny Willott, who until recently was the co-chair of the Lib Dem Parliamentary Committee on Work and Pensions, said:

“Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government are doing the right thing and supporting young people in Wales who have had difficulty finding a job or training when they’ve left school.

“Today’s announcement will ensure they receive personal, targeted support from experts to help them develop the confidence and skills that the need to stay in education or find a job.

“Youth unemployment is a slow burn social disaster so it’s right that although money is tight, the Coalition Government is prioritising investment in the Youth Contract to get young people earning or learning.”

Commenting further, Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Nick Clegg said:

“Sitting at home with nothing to do when you’re so young can knock the stuffing out of you for years. It is a tragedy for the young people involved and a ticking time bomb for the economy and our society as a whole. This problem isn’t new, but in the current economic climate we urgently need to step up efforts to ensure some of our most troubled teenagers have the skills, confidence and opportunities to succeed.

“Many of them will have complex problems: truancy, teenage pregnancy, a lack of GCSEs and health problems. So helping them onto their feet will not be without challenges and Government cannot do this alone. But we all have a duty to reach out to the young people who can be hardest to reach. That’s why today I am calling on charities and other organisations at the coal face to work with Government to help tens of thousands of lost teenagers onto a brighter path.”

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“This latest fall in unemployment is welcome news for the Welsh economy.

“The rise in employment opportunities will be a timely boost for the families affected.

“Welsh Labour Ministers should now renew their efforts to build on the potential in the Welsh economy to make Wales a more competitive place to do business.

“Families across Wales, who are dependent on stretched incomes, will expect Welsh Labour Ministers to play their part in helping grow the Welsh economy.”

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Among the new recruits at Debenhams at the Eagles Meadow shopping centre is Claire Gill.

The 21 year old Retail Management graduate said that  it was a “dream start” to her career.

Claire was originally taken on as one of 40 Christmas temps to cope with the busy festive season.

Things are still going so well that Debenhams have opted to give full-time or part-time contracts to 22 of them.

Sales Manager Andy Ray said: “We offer temporary positions in the run up to Christmas because we need extra staff to cope with the demand.

“It’s a chance to impress and secure one of any full or part-time positions we may have available in January.

“Christmas was very busy and to be fair January has been very good too so we were able to retain 22 temporary members of staff on full or part-time contracts.

“We are delighted with the new staff we have taken on and they are all settling well into their new roles. For some it is an ideal opportunity as they have ambitions of a career in retail management.

“Others are happy to work part-time. However, they all have one thing in common and that’s excellent customer service. We look for staff who are pleasant, welcoming and can give our customers that real personal touch.

“I can confidently say all our new staff excel in customer service and we are delighted to have been able to offer so many of them job opportunities here at Debenhams’ Eagles Meadow store.”

Claire Gill, from Ruthin, has just graduated from Preston University with a degree in Retail Management and is delighted to have landed a full-time position at the store.

She said: “I was pleased to land a temporary job in the run-up to Christmas and absolutely thrilled to have been taken on full-time since, I am currently working on the women’s section.

“I am keen to impress and move up the management ladder. Debenhams is a really forward thinking company and I have already been made aware of management courses that will be available to me in the near future.

“I am keen to forge a career in retail management and I working here at Debenhams in Eagles Meadow is a dream start. I love the store and Eagles Meadow has a really nice atmosphere. I am now hoping a long and successful career with Debenhams.”

Another new member of staff is Sarah Blackmore, 24, of Acrefair, who is studying textiles on a part-time Loughborough University course.

She said: “I am currently working in the Accessories section and loving it here at Debenhams.

“The company is a brilliant firm to work for and has such a good brand name. I really like the Eagles Meadow store and the whole shopping centre which is such a good place to shop.

“I am delighted to have had the chance to turn what was a temporary position into a more permanent job which I am managing to fit around my part-time studies.”

Jemma Ditcher, 19, of Oswestry, was another to seize the chance of a full-time role following a stint as a Christmas temp.

She said: “I am on a gap year after finishing college and, although I hope to go onto to study medicine next year, I jumped at the chance of working for Debenhams.

“I was unemployed up until I landed a temp position before Christmas so to get the chance of a full time job is brilliant. I am working in children’s clothing which I also really enjoy.

“It’s brilliant working in the store as you get to meet so many people and I enjoy the interaction with customers. I am so grateful to be given the chance to gain some experience here in the Eagles Meadow store and am looking forward to the year ahead.”

Photograph: Sales Manager Andy Ray with Sarah Blackmore, Claire Gill and Gemma Ditcher

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Vision Products, the Councils’ award-winning business which produces PVCu windows and doors, and runs a unique community equipment service and telecare project has launched the scheme in conjunction with special schools throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf.

Ysgol Hen Felin in Ystrad, Rhondda, has worked closely with Vision Products to develop a new apprenticeship scheme that will welcome six young adults with disabilities into the world of work.

Established to provide cost effective employment and development opportunities for people with disabilities, Vision Products has two main premises in Pontyclun and Newport, employing almost 140 members of staff. The six new apprentices will be based at the Pontyclun site in Coedcae Lane Industrial Estate.

This is the first innovative large-scale apprenticeship and training project of its kind for Vision Products and will commence in April 2012.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Performance, Human Resources & Housing Cllr Clayton Willis said: “Vision Products is an exemplar in its field and I’m always impressed by their incredible success story in not only providing employment opportunities for individuals who may otherwise not find long-term work, but also in their continued economic growth.

“The latest phase in their success story is both pioneering and inspiring in its approach. By working closely with Ysgol Hen Felin and providing first-class training opportunities, we hope to lead six initial apprentices on their journey to full-time employment by developing skills and confidence in their abilities.”

The six individuals, who visited Vision Products this week, will be employed on a part-time basis and if possible will include individuals to job share with a year-long contract. In conjunction with Elite  Supported employment agency, Vision Products and Ysgol Hen Felin will provide peer support and mentoring to the group during their term of employment.

As part of the scheme the apprentices will also be offered the opportunity to undertake NVQ training.

On their visit to the Coedcae Lane site, the six apprentices and their parents or carers were all introduced to Simon Bould and Matthew Chick, both former Ysgol Hen Felin pupils who since joining Vision Products four years ago have flourished in their personal development, confidence and knowledge of their job roles.

The new apprentices will have the opportunity to gain experience in any of the different aspects of the company. This could include the Community Equipment Services that offers living aides such as walking frames, hoists, adapted furniture and more to hospitals, day centres, homes, schools and more.

Vision Products also boasts a Telecare independent living scheme that sees sensors installed in homes to monitor activity and enable people to live in their own homes for longer, knowing fire, smoke, temperature, flood, gas leaks and more are being monitored.

Finally the company has developed an award-winning UPVc windows and doors company that offers homes and businesses across the country high-quality windows and doors, complete with installation and a 10-year guarantee, at affordable prices.

Vision Products clients include eight local authorities, health trusts, Church in Wales and education bodies.

Photograph: Six new apprentices have joined Vision Products

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“This is welcome news for the Welsh economy and demonstrates how Wales can play a leading role in the technology sector.

“Some of these jobs may be a first step on the employment ladder for young people, giving them the chance to earn as they learn as well as tackling high levels of youth unemployment.”

Suzy Davies, Assembly Member for South Wales West, said:

“This announcement is a welcome boost for the local economy in Swansea and will help provide employment and training for 250 skilled workers.

“This reinforces Swansea’s image and reputation as a place to do business.

“We now need Welsh Labour Ministers to work constructively with industry to maximise the opportunities available for companies to invest and expand their operations in South West Wales.”

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Evan-Evans Chief Executive Simon Buckley today announced he would be building a team of talented apprentices to help maintain the brewery’s expanding pub and hotel business.

“I am fed up reading about the young of West Wales not being able to find jobs and apprenticeships,” said Mr Buckley.

“Not every youngster is destined for an academic career and university life. Now is the time for us in industry, with the opportunity to influence employment, to do something about it.”

Statistics show that the number of apprentices taken on by Welsh businesses has seen a significant drop over the past three years.

The Welsh Government, which spends £90m a year on apprenticeships, used the launch of National Apprenticeships Week, to call on more employers to take on the next generation of workers.

Welsh Deputy Minister for Skills Jeff Cuthbert said the move would give businesses vital skills for survival and growth in the future.

Mr Cuthbert said on-the-job training led to “better motivated workforces and an improved bottom line”.

Mr Buckley said he would be laying the foundations for new apprenticeships by constructing a new Clerk of Works team for the brewery.

The new team will be responsible for building three new divisions of the company and developing a team of talented apprentices to help maintain the brewery’s expanding pub and hotel business.

The new managers will be responsible for working directly with the contracts manager, who will source work outside the group for the team.

Mr Buckley said: “We intend building three separate divisions to our main drinks business. We are constantly looking for electricians, painters and plumbers to maintain our pub estate, and to keep the brewery brewing.

“We are currently well looked after by a great team of sub-contractors, but now is the time to help get young people back into work, to give them a sense of purpose and for them to be able to live and work in their own home town.

“The first part of our search is to find a supervisor who can head up each of the businesses, responding directly to our new Clerk of Works. Once we have them in place we can then start the search for a team of young apprentices, people who want to be part of a successful team, who want to learn and get on in life.

“This is a job building exercise and we want to give these young people something to look forward to and to be able to have a sense of satisfaction at doing a good job. We also want them to realise that nothing comes without hard work.

“We hope to work with our local schools, and to be able give a group of youngsters the real chance they deserve each year.”

The Evan-Evans brewery is based in Llandeilo and is one of the top specialist brewers in the UK.

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The ‘Prime of Life’ project will provide support people in the over 50s across Wrexham and Flintshire to help them back into employment, self-employment, training or voluntary work.

The lottery funded scheme pairs up clients with Mentors and is already helping 15 people across the two counties.  ‘Prime of Life’ Clients are given advice on with interview technique, updating their C.V as well as Work experience and support when apply for jobs.

The contract is administered by ‘Prime Cymru’, a Prince of Wales charity which has provided support to over 50 year old across Wales since 2001.

Speaking at the Launch event, Lesley Griffiths said:

“I welcome the work the ‘Prime of Life’ is doing across Wrexham and Flintshire.

“Contrary to the perceptions of many, most people in the over 50s age group want to continue working and contributing to the economy. Not only that but they are willing to learn, with almost half having undertaken some form of training in the last three years.

“People are living longer, and working longer. However, problems with the perception of the employability of this age group persist.

“Groups like Prime Cymru therefore provide a highly valuable service, giving people the tools they need to get themselves back into the workplace, at the same time as changing perceptions of the over 50 age group.”

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Andrew RT Davies AM, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the National Assembly, said, “Concerns about the future of Peacocks and its employers highlights the lack of major employers based in Wales and the limited appeal to potential investors.

“We need major employers based in Wales, who can offer high-end jobs, graduate schemes and apprenticeship places to help maximise our economic potential.

“I fear that major employers and potential investors will be put off basing their operations in Wales because of a lack of economic action from the Welsh Labour Government.

“Over 12 years, successive Welsh Labour Governments have failed to attract corporate HQs to Wales and a series of overseas visits by the First Minister have failed to yield clear results.

“I am disappointed that the First Minister refuses to recognise the lack of appeal in our economy and the need for action to entice job creators to invest in Wales.

“The First Minister needs to end his government’s dithering and start taking the tough decisions to protect Welsh jobs.”

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“While we welcome the fall in unemployment in Wales, the outlook for the Welsh economy remains challenging.

“In response to these figures, Welsh Labour Ministers need to start working constructively with the UK Government and take decisive action to help protect jobs.

“Wales’ economic competitors and potential investors will not stand idly by waiting for Welsh Labour Ministers to make decisions on Enterprise Zones and business rates.

“Families across Wales dependent on already stretched incomes need Welsh Labour Ministers to use the levers at their control to help secure Wales’ fragile economy recovery.”

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Do you know what skills employers are looking for? Do you need a CV and help with job applications and interviews? Then why not call in for an informal discussion with Careers Wales? All of these services are FREE so what have you got to lose?

To learn more about what’s on offer, or to book an appointment, contact the team at Communities First Higher Shotton on 01244 846090 or Careers Wales on 01352 750456.

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The Assembly Member for South Wales Central made it clear that independence would transform an “economy stagnant for the best part of a century” and rejuvenate areas of Wales with new “economic capitals”.

The AM makes the case on her campaign website leannewood2012.com, explaining the key to reviving the economy was the creation of a Building Wales jobs plan that features incentives and practical help for people to form their own job-creating enterprises.

Ms Wood said: “The biggest worry facing most people in Wales today is their own and their family’s economic security. Safe jobs have become unsafe. Public sector cuts will hit harder in Wales where the public sector makes up a larger proportion of the economy than other parts of the British state. The market has been failing to provide jobs in some parts of Wales since the 1980s, so the chances of the private sector filling the gaps left by the public sector during a deep recession are slim.

“Low pay and high unemployment already mean four in 10 Welsh households are in fuel poverty – the highest in the UK. Social problems, linked to high unemployment, will get worse unless bold steps are taken to reverse the economic decline of our country. Plaid Cymru must prioritise strategies that can deliver good quality jobs and full employment.”

Leanne Wood said the deepening economic crisis demanded bold solutions to combat unemployment now: “I want to see a ‘Building Wales’ jobs plan to ensure that everyone who can work gets a job helping to re-build the Welsh economic infrastructure. This would help the people of Wales and needs the Welsh Government to have Scottish-style control over varying taxation and other economic levers.”

Leanne Wood called for a Welsh ‘brand’ of locally-produced, fair-trade and co-operative products to be developed for export in key sectors:

• Food
• the creative industries
• green technology
• high-skilled manufacturing.

These niche markets are sectors which, with support, could also be expanded for both internal consumption and export.

Leanne Wood also insisted that the people of Wales must have full control and ownership of Welsh natural resources to stem the leaking of wealth from Wales.

Ms Wood added: “Our attempts to build the Welsh economy must provide alternative solutions for the people and places where the market has failed. Plaid Cymru’s vision for an independent Wales has to include an explicit aim to give everyone living in Wales an equal chance in terms of work and prosperity, no matter where they come from. Our economic plan must focus on those groups and areas that have been abandoned by an economy that overheats at the centre to the detriment of the periphery and cares more for the millionaires than the millions struggling to make ends meet.

“Recently unveiled plans to set up enterprise zones will not solve the inequalities facing many parts of Wales. Real enterprise zones would decentralise, for example, promoting the specialisation of particular sectors in geographic ‘centres of excellence’, away from the economically successful M4 corridor, allowing for the development of new Welsh ‘capitals’.

“Our west coast is one of Wales’ greatest assets and it is under-utilised. We should seek to stimulate Wales’ peripheral areas by developing ‘added value’ niche manufacturing sectors in new economic ‘capitals’ – Aberystwyth, Swansea, Bangor, Newport, Wrexham and in the valleys and using Holyhead, Fishguard and Milford Haven as centres for improving links with Ireland & beyond for export.

“The case for an independent Wales is a case for a better democracy where people are directly involved in decision making, something that does not currently exist in the UK. The case for independence can only be won through economic arguments. We in Plaid, and wider Welsh society, must rise to that challenge.”

Read more on Leanne’s campaign website at leannewood2012.com

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West Country entrepreneurs Matthew Gray, 33, and Gareth Murray, 31, who have also taken over the Go Mobile franchise in Port Talbot, are promising local deals for local people as their unique selling point.

The acquisition of the two new stores takes the number of their Go Mobile franchised outlets to 14.

And Matthew says their plan is to increase the number of outlets they operate to 20 by June 2012.

He said: “We are by far Go Mobile’s largest franchise owners running 14 of Go Mobile’s 100 outlets nationwide. However, we are constantly looking at new locations and we are always open to suggestions.

“We have a very specific business plan ensuring we look after local people. Some bigger companies in the industry are more interested in numbers. We offer a deal with long-term support.”

He added: “Things are going well and we are very pleased to have acquired the franchise on the Swansea and Port Talbot outlets. And as a result we have created three new full-time jobs in our Swansea outlet and two at Port Talbot.

“It is hard work but we are energetic and determined and I am sure we will achieve our goal of having 20 stores by summer.”

Quadrant Shopping Centre manager Alan Wallace welcomed the move and said: “It is good to see a business expanding and offering new careers here in Swansea.

“The Quadrant is certainly a very popular centre and is a key part of the city’s retail sector and there is always plenty of interest from retailers wanting to take units here.”

Matthew said that with stores in Hampshire and their native counties of Devon and Cornwall, they can drive down operating costs.

He said: “I have 10 years of experience in the industry while my business partner, Gareth has a similar background and also has a decade of experience in the mobile phone business.

“We are looking at another potential outlet in Wales but we are delighted to have acquired a store in the Quadrant Shopping Centre which we have always thought of as a prime location.

“We want to see the Swansea store grow and develop and can assure our customers we will be going all out to provide a real local service for local people.

“We deal with business to business as well as individual customers and work with all the major networks to offer cracking deals for local people.”

Photograph: Matthew Gray, left, and Gareth Murray of Go Mobile in the Quadrant Centre, Swansea

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Commenting on today’s announcement, Glyn Davies said:

“Cobra UK is a very important business in Welshpool. I visited the company last year when it won the Queen’s Award for Industry in the International Trade category. The news of 49 new jobs is particularly welcome at a time when the entire European economy is going through such a difficult time.

“It’s also good news that Vauxhall UK has placed such an important order with a Wales-based manufacturing business. Today’s news is a very welcome Christmas present for Welshpool.”

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The young apprentices, ranging from teens to twenties in age, are working across the repairs and maintenance sector which involves carpentry, plumbing, masonry and electrical trades. They are being expertly mentored by a host of senior staff at Tai Ceredigion and will be learning on the job while studying for their qualifications at college.

Within the new team is the first female electrician for the Housing Association, Alex Mather from Llanarth. She joins Tai Ceredigion for one day a week from Coleg Ceredigion. Alex said “It is a great opportunity for me to put my new skills to the test and learn on the job. I can now study and obtain work experience at the same time.  There should be more women in these trades and studying these courses. I encourage other women to apply as it is very satisfying course and skill to have.”

Scott Evans from Llanllwi, an apprentice carpenter, and Jack Townsend from Cardigan, an apprentice electrician, both already have brothers working within Tai Ceredigion’s Direct Labour Organisation. They said “We both knew that joining Tai Ceredigion’s apprenticeship scheme would be very useful for our training. It is a great scheme and organisation to work for.”

Sam Harris, the apprentice plumber from Carmarthen said “Being given this opportunity in this difficult time to find employment has been a lifeline. I can now study at college and work with Tai Ceredigion at the same time. I feel really lucky.”

Steffan Foulkes, another apprentice electrician from Machynlleth added “I am loving my placement so far. Everyone is extremely helpful and I am learning so much. It is great to get our hands dirty rather than just be stuck in the classroom all day.”

Llyr Edwards, Director of Property Services at Tai Ceredigion said “It was key that we developed our own apprenticeship schemes in order to create a young workforce with relevant skills and a real understanding of the housing sector. It was one of our promises in the Offer Document to our tenants and we are proud of our commitment to young people in the area. We would also like to thank our craftsmen within our DLO as they have taken on their new roles of mentors with great enthusiasm and willingness. We could not train the apprentices without them, so they are invaluable.”

Photograph: Some of the new apprentices and Dorian Thomas, an apprentice electrician, who is into his second year of employment with Tai Ceredigion

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“Just weeks before Christmas, this is devastating news for the employees affected and their families.

“The Welsh Government needs to offer support to those workers to help them find alternative employment or seek training opportunities.”

Mark Isherwood AM, Shadow Minister for North Wales, added, “In the light of the fragile nature of the North Wales economy, Welsh Labour Ministers need to accelerate their plans to stimulate growth in the Welsh economy.”

Antoinette Sandbach, North Wales AM, said, “The Welsh Labour Government should now prioritise the introduction of Enterprise Zones and cuts to business rates to help create the conditions for economic growth and job creation.”

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With talk of possible recession, and youth unemployment hitting over 1 million, there is a lot of talk of a “big society” and how citizens should spend time taking power and responsibility for themselves.  Volunteering is not only a way of making a contribution to society, but taking control of your own situation, getting some much needed skills and also feeling pretty good about it!

The Egypt Centre at Swansea University provides opportunities for anyone to make that contribution to the local community, while gaining skills and enjoyment for themselves. Phillip Green, 26 and Rosalyn Thomas, 23 who both volunteered with the Egypt Centre, did just that.

Phillip who started at the Centre as a recent graduate had found it difficult to get full time employment and had been stuck in a part time job he had taken while at university and had little confidence due to the knock backs of the job market. He joined the Egypt Centre hoping to gain some direction, valuable skills for employment, as well as to give back to his local community. Under the Egypt Centre’s voluntary programme he progressed from a gallery assistant to supervisor then became an educational leader. In 2010, he was appointed as a clerical and admin officer. In addition to his other roles, Phillip spent 4 months helping our education officer develop a new educational programme, engaging other volunteers to give their voice and opinions to the changes that would affect them. Phillip’s contribution to the local community, as well as his ability to put people of all ages and ability at ease, made him one of Wales highly commended volunteers of the year in 2011.  Phillip’s skills in the workplace increased as did his confidence and it was this that enabled him to gain full time, permanent employment in 2011 when he secured a job as a Visitor Assistant in the Houses of Parliament in London.

Rosalyn started her volunteering at the Egypt Centre in 2006 as an undergraduate at Swansea University. She quickly engaged with the museum and became an integral part of the voluntary team. She learned many skills and put them to use helping deliver our education program and the youth volunteering program on a Saturday; helping children of all ages and abilities, gain valuable confidence and skills. Ros continued to volunteer after she graduated and finally in 2010 secured a job with Swansea Museum, and then with the Egypt Centre itself!

Volunteering in the Egypt Centre will help you benefit not just from a great sense of satisfaction and community, but with free training and work experience, it gives you confidence to back up the skills you already have and those will gain through volunteering. If that’s not enough, volunteers also get 10% discount in our shop, pastoral support, careers advice and the support of a full-time Volunteer Manager.

Any one can volunteer to gain work based skills you don’t need any qualifications or any knowledge of Egyptology.  Volunteers usually commit to 3 hours a week but we are flexible to individual needs. If you are interested in getting involved with the Egypt Centre, application forms and more information are available online from the website www.egypt.swan.ac.uk or you can contact the Volunteer Manager, Ashleigh Taylor 01792 606065 a.a.taylor@swansea.ac.uk

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Card Factory was only launched in 1997 but already the Wakefield company has over 600 stores nationwide and their newest is in the Quadrant Centre.

James Flower, Area Manager for the specialist retailer of greetings cards, said: “We have been looking for opportunities to extend our trade in Swansea and the Quadrant Centre is an excellent location with great footfall and we wanted to be part of that.

“We expect that the opening will create nine new jobs with at least another seven temporary staff for the Christmas period.

“We will also be retaining our existing and successful Oxford Street store in Swansea so these are new jobs.”

The opening of the 1700 square foot store in the former Early Learning Centre premises means that the Quadrant Centre is again up to 100 per cent occupancy.

The arrival of Card Factory has been welcomed by Quadrant Centre Manager Alan Wallace who said: “We’re delighted to welcome Card Factory here. They are a very successful brand.

“It means that once again all our units are full which shows that the Quadrant continues to be a much sought after venue for major retailers and one which plays an integral part in Swansea’s overall retail offer.

“We’re ideally placed at the heart of the city centre, we’re very accessible with good parking and the renovated bus station connecting to the centre and we’re under cover which makes us pretty much weather-proof as well.”

The new manager of the Card Factory store is Samantha Bray, originally from Worksop, in Nottinghamshire, who moved to Swansea five years ago and has worked for Poundstretcher and Wilkinson.

She said: “I am really looking forward to the challenge. Card Factory is one of the UK’s retail success stories which started from a car boot sale business which aimed to open ten stores in ten years and hugely exceeded that.

It is a great fit with the Quadrant Centre which is a very busy place with a great range of stores which attracts plenty of shoppers.”

Photograph: Sasha Boland, Suzanne Bradley, Carole Kingdon and Michelle Donovan

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Despite unemployment figures hitting 9.3% – as high as the peak of the recession – the AM for South Wales Central has obtained figures which suggest this statistic only tells part of the story.

Data from the Annual Population Survey shows a greater proportion of people in work are in part-time roles – 371,000 in the period from April 2010 to March 2011 compared to 359,000 in the period between April 2007 and March 2008.

Of those working part-time, the number of people stating they could not find a full-time job rose from 38,000 in the period between April 2007 and March 2008 to 63,000 between April 2010 and March 2011.

In the same four-year period, the amount of people working full-time dropped from 972,000 to 919,000.

Ms Wood said: “The number of people without work in Wales is shocking in its own right but, when combined with these figures, a pretty grim picture for the Welsh economy emerges.

“Many more people have to settle for part-time work because full-time jobs are so scarce.  For some people, part-time work is ideal but for many others it is not.  The amount of part-time workers stating they could not find a full-time job is testament to this.

“There was also a corresponding increase in the numbers of temporary workers between April 2007 and March 2011 from 19,000 to 30,000.

“Clearly people want a full-time job but simply cannot find one.  These figures lay waste to the argument of Ian Duncan-Smith and his millionaire cabinet colleagues in Westminster that people need to get on the bus to find a job.

“The problem is not the will of the people to work but the lack of jobs which has been exacerbated by a regressive, ideological and callous Westminster Coalition.”

She added: “While the Welsh economy has been punished badly by the global recession and the cutbacks imposed by the Con/Dems, it is clear that a bold and ambitious set of policies is needed to counteract the poor outlook for jobs and growth.

“So far, there has been little evidence from the minority Labour Government in Wales during the last six months that they are willing to go the extra mile that is needed during this crisis.

“Instead, they have let Welsh communities take the hit – and people are losing their jobs and homes as a result.

“Plaid Cymru is particularly concerned about youth unemployment which is why we have called for the Welsh Government to draw up a stimulus package for the economy as a matter of urgency.”

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This week, youth unemployment (i.e. the number of 18-24 year-olds out of work) reached its highest level since the early-mid 1990s, when the Conservatives were last in power.

Jeff Cuthbert AM said: “Youth unemployment in the Caerphilly constituency increased by 56 per cent between January and September of this year.

“This is a shameful indictment of the UK Government’s record, cutting spending too fast with little idea of how to get the economy growing again. It’s clear that they’re the same old Tories who see unemployment as a price worth paying.

“The Labour Welsh Government is taking concerted action to get people back into work, get the economy growing again and making sure our workforce has the skills that employers want.

“We have already announced the Welsh Jobs Fund that will create 4000 jobs each year for young people and help them learn new skills. In addition, we are also committed to extending our Pathways to Apprenticeship programme, helping employers take on more apprentices who learn vital on-the-job skills as well as continuing with their education.

“Finally, only this week the Labour Welsh Government announced a £55 million package to help businesses across Wales expand and recruit more staff. This sort of action is vital if we are to protect Wales from Tories’ savage spending cuts.”

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After feeling depressed and withdrawn, single mum Sharon Sadler has seen her self-confidence soar and is now looking forward to seeking full-time employment.

Sharon, 42, from Chester Avenue, Kinmel Bay, was one of four students to complete a pioneering Gateway course involving partners Cartrefi Conwy, Crest Co-operative and Conwy Voluntary Services Council.

The aim of the 12-week project is to get people back into the world of work by boosting their self-esteem and providing skills for life.

It is targeted not only those who have been out of work for long periods, such as mothers who have had to look after children, but also those who have never been in full-time employment.

Cartrefi Conwy, which in 2008 took over responsibility for housing from the County Borough Council, agreed to become active partners in the scheme to provide an extra service to tenants aged 18 – 65.

To take part tenants had to commit themselves to four-and-a-half hours on one day a week throughout the 12 weeks. Four groups of nine tenants will participate over 12 months.

The majority of the programme is centred on real work scenarios and takes place at Crest Co-operative’s head office and retail premises in Llandudno Junction. It also includes a module on healthy living.

Sharon was among the first four to complete the course, the others being Vicky Downey, a mother-of-three, also from Chester Avenue, Kinmel Bay, Kathy McNicholas from Llandudno, and former hotel worker Ian Davies, also of Llandudno.

Sharon, who has two grown-up children, and three others aged eight, 13 and 14 still at home, worked for about four years as a sessional worker with National Children’s Homes (NCH) in Belgrano and has also filled a variety of volunteering roles in the area. Like Vicky, she is involved with the Green Fingers project on the Chester Avenue estate.

“But it’s very difficult being a single mum and I became depressed and withdrawn,” she said.

“When I heard about this Gateway Project I decided to apply to try and prepare myself for getting a job and it’s done wonders for my self-confidence. It’s given me a completely fresh outlook,” she said.

Ian, too, was delighted he grasped the opportunity to go on the course, which he saw advertised in Cartrefi Conwy’s Llandudno office. He had been out of work since September, 2010.

“When you’re out of work for a long time your self-confidence takes a knock and the course has helped me regain that. I am more optimistic now than I was before,” he commented.

The Gateway course has had the same beneficial effect on Kathy, who has six children aged 12-16 and nine grandchildren.

Many years ago she worked as a waitress and in a care home, but as well as bringing up her children she has suffered health problems. She learned of the Gateway Project through her involvement with the King’s Road Tenants’ Group of which she is treasurer.

“I have been down in the dumps but I have more confidence now, and have already done some work for Crest as a volunteer,” she said.

Andrew Bowden, the Chief Executive, is delighted at the success of the Gateway project and the positive impact it’s had on the lives of the participants.

Mr Bowden said: “Our aim is to help tenants increase their confidence and provide practical skills that will stand them in good stead when they are looking for work.

“This is a great project and the enthusiasm shown by those who have been taking part is testament to its  effectiveness in improving their confidence and self esteem.”

Jeff Warren, Assistant Director of Crest Co-operative, presented certificates to all four and congratulated them on their achievement and dedication.

“Apart from carrying out the work involved they did well to complete the programme, which in itself is an achievement when one has been out of work for so long. They should be very proud of what they have done,” he said.

Mr Warren said it would have been very difficult to have arranged such a programme without Cartrefi Conwy being involved as partners.

Photograph: Ian Davies, Kathy McNicholas, Vicky Downey and Sharon Sadler who have completed the 12-week Gateway project at Crest, Llandudno

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