Workable
One of the projects that the Wise Group will feature at the careers fair is its flagship WorkAble initiative. This is a client-led programme that is tailored to meet the needs, abilities and aspirations of those it tries to help. Since it was launched in 2001 WorkAble has supported around 10,000 people on incapacity or related benefit, as well as people with a recognised disability. More than half (5,196) of whom are now in employment.
Loneparents
For some it is their circumstances that are preventing them from fulfilling their potential. The LoneParent programme helped Dionne set up her own holistic healing business. Dionne had the qualifications to be in work but, as a lone parent, she needed help with childcare arrangements and advice to set up her own business. Advisers from this programme will be available for an informal discussion on the exhibition stand throughout the Careers Fair.
Former offenders
Former offenders often have difficulty getting back into employment but, through a pioneering project called Routes out of Prison, the Wise Group has been managing the pilot project funded through the Scottish Government multiple and complex needs fund using a unique mentoring model. The project has already had an impact in helping to reduce reoffending, increase employment and reconnect families.
Wise Group Chief Executive, Laurie Russell said:
"We see every person who comes to us as an individual. It may be that they have had to survive in a difficult environment and that may bring its own challenges and issues when helping them into employment, but we never forget that they will have skills that they can use to change their lives for the better and contribute to society."
Case Study 1
Colin McIntosh is just one of the people whose life has been changed as a result of joining a Wise Group project.
In 2006, after nursing his wife through cancer at home, Colin wanted to use the skills he had developed during this time. He heard about the Wise Group and joined as an Assistant Trainer. Since joining, his confidence and self esteem have grown and he discovered that he has a real aptitude for training and communicating with people which he intends to use in his new career in a care home.
Colin says: “Joining the Wise Group rebuilt my confidence after caring for my wife for six years. This meant I was out of the job market for a long time but the training I received means I feel confident”.
Colin and thousands like him have benefited from one-to one-coaching on interview techniques and how to present your skills in your CV. What marks the Wise Group out as different and the key to the success is that they match clients needs to a job, not vice versa.
Media contacts for further information
Scotland’s Careers & Jobs Fair: Christine McAllister, Budge PR, on 0141 553 1115 or 07706 111 214
The Wise Group: Aileen McLaughlan on 0141 303 3131or 07747 770635