Rossendale ‘Works’ for local unemployed people

A new project from Rossendale Council and partners will see local unemployed people given the opportunity to find a pathway back to work through volunteering or taking part in regular sporting activities.

‘Rossendale Works’ will see the Council working with local partners Active Lancashire (previously Lancashire Sport) and the Department for Work and Pensions to target those over 18s in receipt of out of works benefits or those who are currently excluded from the jobs market.

The two year pilot scheme will see participants referred from Active Lancashire and the local job centre, with tailored sporting activities and volunteering opportunities delivered locally.

Once a person has successfully passed through the programme, with their confidence enhanced and feeling ready to enter the world of work, the Council will engage with local employers to find appropriate 4-8 week placements for them.

Businesses are currently being sought to offer placement opportunities. There are no costs involved as the person on placement will receive their benefits during this period. Businesses can offer further support by offering a role within the company or alternatively by giving a reference for future opportunities.

Cath Burns, Director of Economic Development, said:

This is a fantastic opportunity to provide our unemployed residents with extra support and open up new doors to access employment and find the right job. We are keen to work with all businesses of different sizes and sectors to offer work experience placements.  Work experience placements can create additional capacity for a business and help support a local person into sustainable employment.

If you are a business interested in offering work placement opportunities to support this project, or for more information, contact Rossendale Council’s Economic Development Team on (01706) 252480 or email: economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk