Pictured above: (l-r) Michelle Westwood (Receptionist & former PPDG Customer), Jane Hughes (PPDG Employer Liason Co-ordinator), Alan Randford (Car Park Attendant & former PPDG customer), Gideon Emery (Car Park Attendant & former PPDG customer) and Poppy Roe (Budgen's Customer Liaison Executive)

A Shrewsbury 'back to work specialist' has helped three local long-term unemployed people step into work with opportunities they describe as "jobs they love".

Through a productive partnership with Budgen Motors, Pertemps People Development Group based at Abbey Foregate, has provided a valuable service to the successful car retailer enabling the turnaround in fortune.

Jane Hughes, an Employer Liaison Co-ordinator with Pertemps explains: "PPDG have supported Budgen Motors with their recruitment campaign for the past six months and together we've not only placed three local job seekers but matched them into jobs they really enjoy. 

"All the clients filled in comprehensive application forms, attended interviews before being selected as Budgen's new employees.  Throughout the process they were supported with help in a number of employability skills, interview preparation and confidence and motivational support.  

"One of the employees had been out of work for 10 years having brought up his children single-handedly and was seeking an opportunity to return to work. He was 'delighted and over the moon' to have been given the chance to join as a customer service car park assistant."

The process ensured that the employer only interviewed quality candidates who were suited to the positions available with most of the work for the pre-interview stages provided by PPDG.

"The staff saved us so much time and it was clear that people had been briefed correctly in all aspects of the job roles," explained Budgens Marketing Manager Sarah Donlan. "PPDG pre-screened potential candidates, held workshops and really prepared everyone we invited to interview.

"Each time we have worked with them, they have sifted people providing some excellent candidates matched to the criteria we set. We've had to make some difficult decisions due to the high standards of all the candidates but the appointments we have made show real potential."