Pictured above: Isha Daniels
Sanctuary Group has joined forces with the National Housing
Federation to give 18 to 24 year olds a helping hand onto the
career ladder.
The UK housing and care provider has welcomed 42 recruits as
part of the Future Jobs Fund (FJF) programme, which helps to create
jobs for those who have been out of work and claiming job seekers
allowance for over six months.
Backed by the National Housing Federation and environmental
regeneration charity Groundwork, the scheme provides candidates
with 26-week paid work placements to gain new skills while
increasing their confidence and future career prospects.
The announcement marks phase two of Sanctuary's Future Jobs Fund
intake, with seven having successfully completed placements to
date.
Sanctuary's new Future Jobs Fund trainees are involved in all
areas of the business including housing management, maintenance,
customer service, catering, caretaking and resident involvement.
Isha Daniels, who has been taken on as a temporary neighbourhood
worker following her FJF placement, said: "I didn't know which path
to follow so I thought working for Sanctuary would give me a wide
range of knowledge and broaden my experiences.
"The placement has led to a full-time position with Sanctuary -
I'm enjoying every minute."
During their time with Sanctuary, candidates benefit from
ongoing support involving job specific skills development and other
support, such as mentoring and CV career advice - ensuring they are
ready to progress onto permanent employment.
Sanctuary's Group Chief Executive, David Bennett, added: "With
many young people struggling to find work at the moment, Sanctuary
is firmly committed to equipping individuals with the essential
skills and experience they need to access long term roles.
"The Future Jobs Fund scheme is an important part of this
strategy and complements our extensive apprenticeship, graduate and
work experience programmes."
Chris Galley, worklessness co-ordinator with the National
Housing Federation, said: "The Future Jobs Fund continues to
provide many young people with an opportunity to rebuild their
confidence and place their first foot on the ladder to sustainable
employment.
"The National Housing Federation wishes Sanctuary every success
with its continued commitment to FJF."