By Amir, Lucie and Lizzie

Back in April we carried out a co-production exercise and asked parents and businesses for their thoughts about the Work Skills project. Based on this valuable input, we have redesigned the project and relaunched it in October. A big thank you to everyone that took part in the questionnaire!

So what’s changed?

92% of survey attendees said they were interested in one-to-one support. We now offer one-hour phone or video calls to help you build an action plan and take those first steps towards your new career. This might include attending upcoming Work Skills sessions, starting a course at college or further training, or even gaining work experience in a voluntary role.

95% liked the idea of a job fair. We’re planning to host two Work Skills Job Fairs in 2021, in easily accessible locations in Shoebury and Southend. We’ll be joined by local employers from different types of businesses that are looking to recruit staff.

We asked for ideas about new sessions and suggestions included careers with the Police, Driving Theory test practice, IT skills, money management, and self-employment – we’re aiming to run all these before April 2021!

Guest speakers have been part of our Work Skills events and due to popular demand, we will continue to make these a feature where possible. Speakers include PACEY who can advise about childcare funding, other ABSS projects such as HENRY and SAVS, and Job Centre Plus to give advice about local job hunting and support.

Our Work Skills events have always been delivered on weekdays, but your feedback has shown that 52% of you would like to attend on Saturday mornings. Therefore, we’ll be running a course in February 2021 on Saturday mornings, with details to be announced soon!

Social media was by far the most popular method of communication for promoting our events. We have now launched a Work Skills Facebook and Instagram page – follow us at @ABSSWorkSkills. We also have a Work Skills Q&A session, Welcome to Work Skills, every fortnight on a Thursday at midday on Facebook Live. Why not join us and meet the team!

We continue to welcome your feedback and please feel free to get in touch with us at any time if you have any comments, questions or suggestions: workskills@southend.gov.uk or 01702 534077.