Support for those wanting to get into education or employment

Are you looking to get into employment or education? The Building Bridges Programme is offering free support to people in Wiltshire facing significant barriers in entering employment or education, helping participants to develop the skills and qualifications they need to access education or move towards the world of work.

The programme gives people the confidence and experience they need to be able to progress towards, achieve and sustain ongoing employment. As part of the programme, a dedicated key worker is assigned to each participant to develop a personalised plan to help address their barriers and support them every step of the way, at a pace they feel comfortable with.

One participant recently said: “Being on Building Bridges has really helped improve my mental health. I have more motivation and I have been able to do something positive for myself; I have secured my first job”.

Building Bridges is a partnership of organisations, led by Community First, that has come together to deliver the Building Better Opportunities Programme across Swindon and Wiltshire, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and the European Social Fund. Taking part in the programme is entirely voluntary and all of the advice and support is offered completely free of charge.

To take part, people must:

• Have the legal right to work in the UK
• Currently be unemployed or not working
• Live in Swindon or Wiltshire
• Be aged 15 or over
• Not currently in prison or on remand

Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “We know the pandemic has been a particularly challenging time for employment, and we also understand it can be daunting to feel like you don’t have the skills, education or experience to get into the world of work.

“We are proud to be part of the Building Bridges programme, helping give people the confidence and skills to be able to reach their goals. We would encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch to see how the team can help them“.

The Building Bridges programme also offers a variety of specialist support including; mental health and wellbeing; debt and financial advice; financial training and support; help with transport costs; help with childcare and caring costs; volunteering support; sponsored employment; In-work support and guidance and employer liaison support.

People can register for the programme by visiting the website and completing a quick and easy form, with the option to also refer someone else to the programme. They can also call 01380 732821 or email hello@buildingbridgessw.org.uk.