Work experience initiative in Grimsby aids jobseekers in gaining confidence
Programme helps participants transition back into employment
A work experience programme hosted by Grimsby Jobcentre Plus is empowering individuals to reclaim confidence and acquire valuable workplace skills, supporting their journey back into employment.
Elizabeth Taylor, who relocated to Grimsby from the Midlands with her children, found the programme transformative after leaving her teaching job.
Elizabeth shared her experience: “I’d always been in work and then suddenly I wasn’t. As a teacher my days were fast-paced and demanding, and I went from that to being at home all the time. I started worrying that I wasn’t comfortable in the workplace anymore.”
On discussing her concerns with her work coach, Elizabeth secured a placement at Grimsby Jobcentre Plus, which marked a significant turning point.
“I was so nervous on the first day, but everyone was so friendly. I started shadowing someone straight away and I just felt comfortable. I wasn’t fazed or worried. I honestly felt like I’d found myself again,” she remarked.
Grimsby Jobcentre Plus offers benefit claimants work experience placements to cultivate confidence and practical skills through partnerships with local businesses and organisations, including placements at the Jobcentre itself.
Post-placement, Elizabeth applied for jobs, buoyed by renewed confidence and clarity.
Encouraged by her work coach, she applied for a vacancy at Grimsby Job Centre and succeeded.
“For anyone who’s in that in-between stage, it’s been amazing. Getting back out into the world, seeing what people are doing - it made me feel valuable again,” Elizabeth added.
Joining Elizabeth's success story are Amy and Connor.
Both aim for careers in the Civil Service, utilising the Grimsby Job Centre placement as a stepping stone.
The placement offers them hands-on administrative experience in line with their career goals.
Connor elaborated on the meaningful nature of the work: “We shadow different people across the Jobcentre, from checking IDs when people first arrive, to working alongside work coaches. We’ve also helped design and create forms and documents that are now being used in the organisation.”
Led by Donna England, Skills Lead at Grimsby Job Centre and Work Experience Consultant, the Work Experience Works programme is positively impacting the community.
Donna England highlighted the programme's benefits: "Work experience is a fantastic opportunity for employers to partner with the Jobcentre and make a real difference. It allows claimants to gain valuable skills, build confidence, and overcome barriers that may be preventing them from moving into employment."
Businesses, including B&M, Swift, and The Entertainer, have already participated, realising the advantages.
Placements are tailored to both employer and individual needs and supported by Jobcentre Plus.
Donna expressed her passion for the initiative: "I am incredibly passionate about this programme, as I’ve seen first-hand the positive outcomes it delivers. In many cases, it helps individuals take meaningful steps closer to work, and for some, it directly leads to sustainable employment."
Local businesses are encouraged to participate and offer opportunities to those embarking on their employment journey.
To learn more, contact Donna at [email protected] or visit Grimsby Jobcentre at Bridge House, 225 Victoria Street, Grimsby, DN31 1NH.