Talent match programme boosts jobs skills for future careers
YOUNG men across Halton have been boosting their skills and employment prospects through a Widnes Vikings programme.
Men aged between 18 and 24 have registered to the Talent Match Plus programme, which helps the Vikings work in the borough to support and grow their skills.
Since the programme started, more than 80% of registered participants have gained work experience within retail, journalism and community work, while under supervision of staff at different organisations.
In addition, more than 50% of these have gained interviews with external organisations, with many being offered posts in casual or full-time positions.
Dan Scott, education partnerships manager at the Vikings Sports Foundation, said “We are delighted how the partnership with Talent Match Plus is working and seeing how working in collaboration is supporting our local community.
“We have a unique group of men who engage weekly all of whom have very different skills and abilities, from new fathers, to people with no work experience, to people with masses of qualifications.
“The aim of the programme is to support men on an individual basis, work with their current skill-set and look at how we can use these and new skills to create a pathway into the workplace.
“Ultimately the placements we advise and job applications have to be realistic to each person’s needs and skill set, to guarantee that any individuals CV and cover letter is enhanced and stands out when applying for employment.
“The lads who have engaged are all enthusiastic and have a drive to make a change to their lives.”
Two participants on the programme have recently received offers of employment and additional experience.
Darren Spencer has been offered a stewarding role by an employer, whilst Stephen Charlesworth has been headhunted to support a charity through its media and social media channels, as well as being offered employment with Citizens Advice.
Stephen said: “Talent Match Plus has helped me to find work where other areas have failed.
“It has provided a nice environment for me to complete work experience and has motivated me to keep looking for opportunities.
“Since starting at Widnes Vikings I have done a variety of different roles.
“I have undertaken programme selling and providing customer service, helping out on projects such as Vikings Heroes with the Viking Sports Foundation community team.
“I have also started writing press releases for the club and putting some of my talents to good use. Volunteering with the Vikings has opened opportunities for me to work with other organisations, to improve their business and to build my CV.”
For more information email Dan Scott on daniels@ widnesvikings. co.uk