A new project, matching supply to demand in the labour market was launched in Belfast Castle on 10th January 2006.
The Employability Access Project is a two pronged approach to tackling unemployment in North Belfast, funded by the European Social Fund under the Northern Ireland EQUAL Community Initiative Programme and the Department of Employment and Learning.
People who have been out of work for 6 months or more are offered intensive training to build confidence, improve communication skills, and prepare for a future career in the health sector.
At the same time, the health sector, which is experiencing shortages in certain employment areas, is examining employment processes and procedures to make the transition to work as flexible as possible and to highlight current job opportunities.
“This is an innovative project which we hope will be a driver for change in the health service and further afield. We are aware that the current process to recruit staff can be extremely challenging for some people and we are working in partnership with the community to develop a more user-friendly approach.
We have developed a DVD which explains the opportunities available in the health service to unskilled long term unemployed people, and we hope that by using this medium we can convince people that a future in the health service is worth while”, explained Eamonn Molloy, Director of Human Resources, North and West Belfast Health and Social Services Trust and Chair of the Employability Access Project.
The project will run until June 2007 and is welcomed by the community and North Belfast Partnership who are managing it on the ground.
“North Belfast historically has had high levels of unemployment. The level of deprivation and educational underachievement is well documented. Access to employment is often restricted to those living in North Belfast due to the low skills level and to limited job availability. We also recognise that there is a specific problem with long term unemployment in the area. We are delighted to see this innovative project sited in this area where it is greatly needed. I would encourage local people to access this opportunity and wish them every success in the project.” said Murdo Murray, Chief Executive of North Belfast Partnership.
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