AN INNOVATIVE scheme designed to help young people with disabilities into work has been launched at West Cheshire College.
The Leap2Work programme has been developed to support those aged between 16-25 with access work experience placements and ultimately paid employment.
The college, which has a campus in Ellesmere Port, is one of the first organisations in the county to introduce this unique scheme.
Project manager Andrea Peers said: “Research has shown that there are a lot of students in this category who work hard, participate in learning and progress well but find it difficult to access paid employment.
“This service is specifically designed provide extra support in the workplace on an individual basis according to need.”
The scheme, which is being run in partnership with Cheshire County Council, tailors packages for young people, working both with them and on their behalf, to encourage potential employers to offer placements and also raise awareness about the skills and knowledge those with disabilities can bring to the workplace.
Andrea added: “Leap2Work has just been launched and already we are getting positive feedback from employers.
“The programme is available to anyone in Cheshire who meets the criteria, whether they are already a student at the college or not. They can be referred by other agencies or contact us directly.”
The Leap2Work team operates by assessing the needs, abilities and interests of individuals and offers them ongoing advice and guidance, work skills training plus interview and CV preparation.
The team approaches potential employers for placements and jobs, while ensuring their learning can continue in the work place.
- Anyone interested in finding out more about Leap2Work should contact Andrea Peers or Jeff Wynne on 01244 670595.
