More than 150 people aged over 50 in the district have boosted their job prospects or found work through the Roots to Work scheme.
Roots to Work, a jointly funded initiative and partnership between Dover District Council (DDC) and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), ran for a year and has now come to a close.
It specifically supported people over 50 on benefits who were returning to the workplace, through a range of accredited courses and free workshops, including CV writing and digital training.
Of the 150 people supported, 60 gained new qualifications through Kent Adult Education courses, 15 are now in sustainable employment and a further 15 are in volunteering placements.
Ninety have enhanced CVs ready to send out to potential employers and 80 received help with boosting their confidence for interviews to get them ready for the next stage in their job search.
Debra Jennings, Community Development Officer at DDC, ran Roots to Work and said she is delighted at the positive outcomes.
“We know the positive impact of the Roots to Work scheme goes even further than the figures we have,” she said.
“Those we supported have a new-found confidence and motivation which will help carry them forward in their job search and eventual work placement.
“Others have new qualifications and improved CVs which will help open doors to work and set them on their way to sustainable employment.
“Roots to Work has shown it is possible to overcome those obstacles and get back on the road to employment when aged over 50.”
Cllr Pam Brivio, cabinet member for housing, skills and education at DDC, said: “Age should be no barrier when it comes to finding sustainable employment or boosting your job prospects.
“Roots to Work has shown that with support and the right guidance, anyone – even if you’ve been out of work for years – can be employable and a great asset.
“This was a great partnership between DDC and the Department for Work and Pensions and I hope we can continue to build on this.”
Posted on 09 September 2024