A client of BHT was put on the Work Programme. She said it prevented her from moving forward in her life. She was required to do newspaper and online searches for jobs, three hours a day. She said she received no training and could not talk about her support needs. She said she became increasingly stressed and had nowhere to turn.
She then heard of BHT’s Intern Programme. Our Intern Co-ordinator, Rob Robinson, negotiated with the Work Programme provider that she be able to do a placement through the Intern Programme. Her support needs were identified, as were the skills she had, and a placement was made available for her at our Advice Centre in Queens Road where she was encouraged and appreciated.
Within five to six weeks her growing confidence was noted. She absorbed the learning opportunities made available to her, and she thrived on the culture and work habits. She was encouraged to become more involved with the work and was valued by her colleagues.
She began telling Rob Robinson: “I can do stuff” and “Someone might want me to work for them”. Through her own efforts, without being forced, she looked for jobs, received training on CV writing and interview skills. She was successful with the first job she applied for, and is now working in a private solicitors practice in Brighton.
Each year BHT commits £40,000 of our charitable funds to the Intern Programme, and this is matched by £35,000 from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.
Depending on how long she stays in work, the Work Programme provider will receive between £10k and £13k. BHT will receive nothing.
Courtesy of Andy Winter
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