New Programme Launched For Unemployed People Wanting To Work In Social Care

75 unemployed or economically inactive people will have the opportunity of taking part in the ‘Getting Started’ initiative; an innovative project facilitated by Association for Real Change (ARC), Northern Ireland.

GSAn 8 week training programme which will include information on the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC) Standards of Conduct and Practice for Social Care Workers will be delivered, alongside observational visits to providers of learning disability services.

ARC, an umbrella organisation supporting the learning disability sector, is working with members including Positive Futures, Praxis Care, The Croft Community & Triangle Housing Association to support those furthest removed from employment.  The Getting Started Collaborative is providing the opportunity to gain a sustainable career in social care without the need for previous paid work experience or qualifications.

In response to its member’s request ARC liaised with Ingeus, who deliver the Department for Education and Learning’s employment programme, Steps 2 Success, across Greater Belfast, North Down & Newtownards.

Louise Hughes, Training Coordinator ARC says:

“In response to members needs we have developed this innovate project which offers opportunities for a more diverse workforce in the social care sector.  A sector which offers flexible working conditions, including 16 hour contracts may better suit someone who has been unemployed for a long period, or evening/weekend shifts which may suit people with other responsibilities.”

At a time of 44,330 unemployment claimants as of May 2015, it is also an opportunity of assisting individuals that have a natural skill, or an interest in caring to secure employment.

Colm Conway, Chief Executive NISCC says:

“The Northern Ireland Social Care Council is delighted to be involved as a partner agency in the Getting Started initiative which aims to recruit people with the right skills and values into this complex and rewarding area of work.  This innovative project presents a perfect opportunity to introduce the NISCC Standards of Conduct and Practice for Social Care Workers at the pre- recruitment stage.  This will ensure that knowledge of those fundamental principles and requirements is embedded in practice from the outset.”

Following completion of the training programme, participants will be guaranteed an interview with participating organisations.  The first cohort of 15 participants is due to start in November.

For further information on the Getting Started Project, visit

www.arcuk.org.uk/northernireland/contact-liaise/projects/

or call 028 9038 0960.

The Getting Started Project is part funded by Ulster Garden Villages Ltd and Bombardier.

Last updated 8 years 5 months ago