"We want to work" ... Expert advice adds up to success (From The Oxford Times)

"We want to work" ... Expert advice adds up to success

10:10am Monday 17th September 2012 in News

JOBSEEKERS can gain vital advice, training and information in their search for employment from Government-funded Action 4 Employment.

A4e Oxford, based at Kingsmead House, Oxpens Road, has 10 advisers who help people actively look for work, as well as two others who work from Banbury.

The organisation delivers the Government’s Work Programme on behalf of Job Centre Plus and the Department for Work and Pensions, helping the unemployed get ready for the world of work and ultimately find a job.

Allan Potter, business leader at A4e Oxford, said: “We provide advice to our customers and we move them towards the job market. We ask employers what they require and what they want from their employees.

“We pretty much do the same job a recruitment agency does, but more, and at no cost to them because we are fully-funded. That is a big bonus.”

Jobseekers are referred to the branch by job centres in Oxford, Didcot, Abingdon, Witney and Banbury, usually once they have been out of work for six months.

Lorraine Ousley, employability adviser and trainer, said: “We don’t push people into any old job.

“We look to match the qualities people have with the employer.

“I get more pleasure getting Jobs for other people – you get that buzz almost as if it is a job for you, you want it so much for that person.”

Mr Potter added: “It is really wonderful when someone gets back to you and says ‘you have changed my life and helped me move on’.

“When people are at their lowest, being there to encourage them makes a difference – someone who believes in them and helps them do that extra.

“You always feel very proud when they get the job they want.”

Last year, A4e helped 30,126 people into work in the UK, 10,695 people gain a qualification and worked with 13,523 employers.

Nationally, A4e has 3,300 staff.

For employers, A4e can: n Organise training for candidates n Shortlist potential employees n Conduct in-house interviews n Ensure potential employees have the relevant qualifications n Offer work trial options for both the employer and potential employee to assess suitability.

lEmployers who are interested in any of our We Want To Work candidates should call A4e Oxford on 01865 255810.