Councilsupports ‘Steps to Work’ programme

Steps to Work is the Department for Employment and Learning’s main adult return to work programme which provides assistance to the long-term unemployed who are seeking work. 

The Mayor, Councillor Brian Heading, said: “I am very pleased the Council was able to offer placements to two individuals participating in this programme in its Economic Development and Tourism Units. Lasting up to 26 weeks both opportunities provided the participants, Michael Ayre and Mandy Gratfon, with fantastic experience as the work conducted within these units is very varied and of importance to the Council and the local economy.”

Steps to Work is aimed as those who are long term unemployed or are claiming Incapacity Benefit, Employment & Support Allowance or Income Support. It provides participants with relevant work experience to help them return to work or in some cases find work for the first time. In recognition that a lack of qualifications can be one of the main barriers to finding work, the programme also offers a 26 week placement during which the participant will undertake training leading to the completion of a recognised vocational qualification.

Tish Hegarty, from Lisburn Jobs and Benefits office, added: “Employers such as Lisburn City Council play a vital role in making work experience placements available to those seeking to enhance their employability. The Department is indebted to those taking part in the Steps to Work programme which provides unemployed people with relevant and up-to-date work experience enabling them to compete in today’s difficult labour market, and in many cases leads to full-time employment. To date, the Steps to Work programme has helped over 15,000 people back to employment. Employers who wish to take part in the programme should contact Lisburn Jobs and Benefits office on 028 92 623300 or visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/employment.”

Lisburn City Council intends to continue with this programme and to identify additional placements across the Council including Leisure Services and the Central Depot.