Justin Tomlinson MP has congratulated participants at the end of the three-week 'Give Someone a Start' programme which aims to help long-term unemployed people get into work.
The programme was run by Thames Water who first launched the scheme in 2012. The programme aims to get participants used to being in full time employment, whilst also learning about the water industry. Candidates are told what sort of thing employers are looking for, whilst equipping them with practical skills and hands-on experience in the workplace. They were also given tips on interview techniques and CV writing, as well as taking part in a workshop to sharpen up their IT skills.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: “I was delighted to be asked to come and present the candidates with their certificates for completing this successful programme. The Government has made it one of it's biggest priorities to reduce the number of people not in employment, education or training, whilst increasing apprenticeships and opportunities for young people to learn skills and find employment. Thames Water deserve lots of praise for offering the candidates a chance to unlock their real potential. It was particularly good to hear that one of the candidates was even going to be offered a job with Thames Water, whilst the others are now fully prepped to enter the workplace. With unemployment in North Swindon down by 62.9% and youth unemployment down by 63.6%, their future certainly looks bright."
