Key Support Worker's 1000th Job!

After devoting almost 25 years to the steel industry, Ian along with 15 co-workers from the Sheffield area were all made redundant due to company cutbacks as a result of the recent downturn. Sadly the organisation Ian was working for lost two thirds of their workforce during the recession.

Having been left unemployed for two years and losing confidence in his abilities Ian said “I didn’t think I would find a job again”. Ian volunteered to join the KSW programme where he met ZEST employment and skills advisor Jack Dunn who said “I greatly admire Ian’s commitment, he didn’t let his age nor unemployment status affect his drive and after 3 months he found a job with Sodexo. I am hugely pleased with Ian’s progress”.

Ian now works at as a Security Officer for Sodexo Ltd, one of the world leading food and facilities management group, and is thoroughly enjoying his new found glory. “It’s definitely a learning curve which I enjoy. It helps working alongside an excellent group of people”.

The Key Support Worker service is managed by BEST Ltd in partnership with a range of specialist organisations. It is designed to help those customers that are furthest away from the labour market, who may face multiple barriers, back into sustainable employment. The KSW programme is funded by the European Social Fund through the Department of Work & Pensions.

Positive Programme

We asked Ian’s line manager Kevin Monaghan to share a few words on Ian’s progress and the KSW programme overall “the KSW service is a fantastic programme, a great way to find new talent. I’ve since used the service again because one of my workers had moved on and the support I received from the KSW team was great. I am very pleased with Ian’s progress. He has become a valued and reliable member of our team”.

And the last word from Ian? “I would definitely encourage anybody seeking employment to stick at it, no matter how onerous or demotivating it may seem because the benefits speak for themselves, I would like to thank the KSW team that provided me with the full support and guidance to find this job”.

For more information on how you can become involved in the Key Support Work programme contact us on 0113 245 8360.