Getting back to work - Mark's story

Doors open for Mark

Workways+ continues to charge forward successfully supporting people overcome complex barriers which prevent them from finding employment. One such success story is 41 year old Mark from Neath Port Talbot.

Mark was referred to Workways+ by Jobcentre Plus in May 2017 having not worked for over 10 years. Mark has already made great progress having completed a number of courses, however struggled to take the next step in finding and securing employment due to a number of barriers; lack of transportation, lack of confidence, trust issues and family commitments.

Mark’s mentor Anthony supported him from the outset, building a clear picture of Mark’s individual needs, building his self-esteem and confidence and steering him in the right direction to achieve his goal of finding work within his chosen career of Engineering. When Mark was ready he was introduced to Workways+ Employer Liaison Officer Lesley who worked with him to identify a potential place of work.

Lesley secured Mark a two day work trial with Rhino Doors, a company based in Port Talbot who specialise in the manufacture and installation of performance rated sliding, folding and side hinged doors. Mark made an excellent impression on Rhino Doors during those two days and was subsequently offered a three month paid work opportunity funded by Workways+.  During this time Mark further developed his skillset and completed Counter Balance Forklift Truck training, thanks to Workways+.

Mike Winchcombe from Rhino Doors said “Mark has settled down well and has not been afraid of taking on a challenge. I am sure Mark will have a great future ahead”. Rhino Doors were so impressed by Mark’s commitment to work and his problem solving skills, they made him an offer of employment on the 1^st March this year. Mark was thrilled and accepted the position immediately.  Mark said “things are going well in work, I am happy but most importantly I feel trusted by my employer which has given me confidence and motivated me to continue to improve my knowledge and experience”.

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Community benefits - Steffan's story

Steffan is studying for his BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering at Neath College, and started working for Dawnus during his summer break on a paid 6 week work placement on the Ystylafera School site.

When delivering major projects and infrastructure developments such as this one, the Council works closely with the contractor to ensure as many local people and businesses benefit from the investment.

The Council’s Community Benefits Officer works with the main contractor to ensure people like Steffan are given opportunities for training and employment, and also puts the main contractor in touch with local businesses to supply materials or tender for contracts.

Steffan’s placement involved working as a labourer on the site, working closely with the site and plant operatives. As a result of his hard work and enthusiasm, Steffan was offered a permanent role on the Ystalyfera project. He now works as part of the site operative team, attending college two days a week to complete his BTEC course.

Dawnus Project Manager Tom Rees has been impressed with Steffan’s work and has put him forward for the Dawnus Engineering Apprentice Scheme, which he will start when he completes his current course.

Steffan who lives in Godre’rgraig said: “Dawnus has allowed me to work close to home and put the steps in place for me to progress to become a fully qualified Engineer.”

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