Thursday 5 May 2016. Job seekers in Epsom are benefiting from a new ‘sector-based work academy’ thanks to a new partnership between Job Centre Plus, Nescot College and local NHS provider, CSH Surrey.
12 job hunters who are currently being supported by Job Centre Plus in Epsom will be able to attend a free 10 day programme in business administration at Nescot College and on the last day attend an interview to join CSH Surrey’s Bank workforce. Interested participants who complete the learning will also be able to apply for permanent positions within CSH Surrey’s Administration Service.
The ‘Admin Work Academy’ programme includes three modules covering topics such as: customer service; how to store, archive and retrieve information and records; document production; how to provide administrative support for meetings; business communication; and using social media to publish and share information. Participants will achieve and receive an accredited Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Business Administration and will also be able to gain a day’s work experience within one of CSH Surrey’s Admin teams.
Beverly Blackman, Head of Administration Services at CSH Surrey, says: “As a social enterprise, we aim to support local communities above and beyond the health services we’re contracted to provide, and this partnership is a great example of that. Work has many benefits, including giving people an increased sense of worth and enhancing their emotional wellbeing, both of which contribute to someone’s overall health. We have some great positions within our 80-strong Administration service, some involving direct contact with patients and their families, and others providing administrative support so our clinical services run smoothly. We really hope this partnership will enable us to employ a number of local people who may be returning to work after a career break, starting out in their careers or perhaps looking for the opportunity for get into work for the first time.”
Vasantha Mohan, a Work Coach at Job Centre Plus in Epsom says: “We were really pleased to be working with CSH Surrey and Nescot to offer this programme. It is a great opportunity for our clients to gain new skills and knowledge, work experience and a recognised qualification, plus temporary or permanent employment at the end. If this pilot goes well, we will be looking to extend it to other areas, including Leatherhead and Dorking.”
Pam Tomassi, Flexible Learning Manager at Nescot College in Epsom, says: “Administration is a great career choice for people who are organised, efficient and enjoy serving others. This programme will give participants the key skills they need to apply for admin roles as well as the necessary work experience that employers are looking for. We’re delighted to be working with CSH Surrey and Job Centre Plus to offer this opportunity to make a difference to local people.”
To apply for jobs at CSH Surrey, visit www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for CSH Surrey.