Work. Life. Highland launches
A new Highland partnership to proactively support people into work has launched its website today to coincide with the start of Scottish Careers Week 2024.
www.worklifehighland.co.uk
Work. Life. Highland is the brand name for the Highland Employability Partnership (HEP). The Partnership brings together public, private and third sector organisations supporting individuals on their journey towards, into and within employment.
Chair of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “The launch today is a big step forward in providing people who are looking to start work, return to work after a break or change careers, with all the information they need in one place.
“The website is designed to encourage people to get in touch as this is the most important first step in the process of securing work. Over time, more and more content in the form of real-life case studies and opportunities will be added to demonstrate what is possible.
“I’d like to thank our employability team and all partners for their hard work. By working together, we hope to raise as many residents as possible out of poverty through sustainable and fair work, assisting both individuals and employers across the Highlands unlock their work potential.”
Back Row – L to R Jane Gair, HC Employability Team Leader; David Boag, HC Employability Officer; Nicola Madej, SDS Team Leader Front Row – L to R Elma Hall, DWP Senior External Relations Manager; Cllr Gowans; Gillan Unger, SDS Team Leader
Skills Development Scotland Team Leader Nicola Madej said “We are excited to collaborate with other agencies across Highland to ensure that Highland people, whether they are entering the workplace for the first time, considering a change, or returning after a break are fully supported to develop the skills they need to navigate the changing world of work. This is particularly a focus in Scottish Careers Week which shines a light on the career support available to people of all ages across our area.”
www.worklifehighland.co.uk provides a simple and clear “front door” point of entry to encourage potential clients and employers to get in touch and find out more about the help and support on offer.
The site is structured around three key themes, aimed at guiding people to find out more in relation to their circumstances.
- I want a job – covering starting work for the first time, getting back into work after a career break, enhanced support for people with extra barriers e.g. disability, long-term health conditions, long-term unemployment
- I have a job and want to progress – support for people already in work and in receipt of universal credit to gain skills which will potentially help raise their household income. Supporting working parents on universal credit is a high priority under this theme.
- I am an employer – connecting with employers to support our work by creating valuable opportunities for our clients (e.g. employment, work experience, volunteering and workplace tasters), whilst at the same time helping businesses connect with people who have the potential to become valued members of staff.
Also to coincide with Scottish Careers Week, the Council is running a week-long virtual jobs fair which starts today. Anyone interested in finding out more about career opportunities, looking to change careers or to return to work after a break will be able to log onto sessions hosted by a number of businesses from the comfort of their own home.