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1000 workers Go Forward

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions visited the North East last week to celebrate the success of a pre-employment training programme designed to tackle the staff shortages faced by employers in the contact centre sector.

The Go Forward 1000th Celebration event showcased the success of the programme which has helped more than 1000 people into work since it was piloted in 2003/04.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, James Purnell, said: “We know there are many people on incapacity benefit who can and want to work, but have never been given the chance to actually demonstrate their skills.

“Training programmes like Go Forward are essential in helping people see what they are capable of if given the opportunity, and I am delighted to be here today to see the results of what is proving to be a very successful scheme.”

Go-Forward was devised and launched by Contact Centre Professional in conjunction with the North East Employer Coalition, Jobcentre Plus, Learning and Skills Council, the Department for Education and Skills and E Skills.

Jill Wheeler, national programmes manager for Working Ventures UK said: “Such has been the success of this programme in the North East that we are looking to roll it out nationally. I have also led a project team to develop a similar programme which will help tackle shortages in the customer service, retail, hospitality and tourism sectors. If any employers are interested in signing up, I urge them to get in contact.”

Sharon Rowe, the 1000th graduate to complete the programme and secure employment with npower, said: “Being back in full-time employment has made a big difference in my life and I’m now looking forward to progressing in the job I’m doing. I would recommend this to anyone looking for employment in the contact centre sector.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .