Launching in Herne Bay
The most recent Launchpad in Herne Bay has been a great success. Run by Vicki Steward, our trainer (in the middle of the photo) the group has really bonded and worked well together to help build each other’s confidence for getting back to work. Offering support for each other and sharing ideas has made them all realise that they have a lot to offer an employer.
The group is now at the stage where everyone is working to source a work placement. So far, one of the group, Vanessa, has been offered a work placement at a leading DIY organisation. And another, Jenny, has been offered a permanent role, which is great news.
Everyone in the group is really enjoying the course and feels they’re getting a lot out of it. They now feel much more confident about applying for jobs and understanding what skills they have to offer.
Take a chance
Gary came to Pinnacle People after taking two years out of work in order to foster a young relative. His CV up to that point was strong, but he just needed a helping hand to get him back into work. So Gary was given a four week work placement with Pinnacle People Communities (PPC). He was placed on an allotments project undertaking general grounds maintenance. He then transferred to the Cycle Network/EST Manchester project to assist the supervisor on de-construction, building and grounds work for his last two weeks.
While working on the Cycle Network, Gary came to the attention of another company - Kenny Bros (who do road, footpath and grounds maintenance), who were undertaking work alongside PPC. The PPC supervisor was approached by Kenny Bros who had witnessed the professionalism and quality of the work being carried out by Gary and the team and they were interested in talking to Gary about working for them.
After a formal interview, at which he impressed the managers with his enthusiasm and professionalism, Gary was offered a job. PPC was able to provide Gary with safety boots and hi-visibility clothing to help him get started. This role is very different to what Gary did before his fostering but he has taken to it like a duck to water. He has remained in contact with PPC and always talks about how much he enjoys his job, and the difference it has made to him financially and socially.
Gary was a good customer and really keen to get back into work. Everyone he worked with at Pinnacle People is delighted to see him get back into sustainable employment.