06th Jul 2009 - Remploy celebrates employment successes

The Rt Hon Jack McConnell MSP visited Remploy's latest recruitment branch in Hamilton to find out more about the services it offers to South Lanarkshire jobseekers with a disability or health condition.

People receiving health-related benefits who want to start or return to work can now get help and support from a team of specialist advisors.

The nine-strong team offer individually tailored help and support - everything from confidence building and preparing CVs to interview techniques and in-work support.

More than 250 jobseekers have been supported into work by Remploy Hamilton between April 2008 and March 2009.

The Hamilton branch re-opened in March 2009 after an extensive refurbishment. It joins a growing network of Remploy branches across Scotland and the UK.

The branch works with a wide range of employers to help place people into jobs, including ASDA, beCogent, City Facilities, Poundland, McDonalds and Reliance Security.

Arlene Rodger, Branch Manager, says that the new town centre branch, with its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, is paying dividends to local jobseekers with disabilities or health conditions.

"Even in these difficult economic times, there are jobs available. We work with a wide range of local employers and we often get to hear about vacancies in advance. We can ensure our candidates are fully prepared to apply for and secure these jobs.

"Some employers even guarantee interviews for our candidates because they know how well prepared and keen to work they are."

The branch has already trebled the number of candidate work stations and offers the latest adaptive technology, so its services are accessible to people experiencing a range of disabilities.

The Rt Hon Jack McConnell MSP said: "Remploy does a remarkable job across Scotland, helping people prepare for, and find work. This branch, right in the heart of Hamilton, provides a first class service for employers as well as people looking for work.

"I am sure, that even in these challenging times; the staff of Remploy will continue to make a real difference."

Case study: Danny Prior (photo)

Danny Prior, a 64-year-old from Hamilton has just celebrated his first anniversary in work after receiving support from his local branch of Remploy.

Danny Prior was a joiner by trade and led a very active life until 1998 when he developed asthma due to the dusty conditions he worked in as a joiner. He was then diagnosed with diabetes and also had knee replacement surgery on both legs.

 A challenging eight years of unemployment followed and Danny's self esteem plummeted. He became depressed and felt very unsure about what to do next, given all his health issues.

He was referred by Jobcentre Plus in Hamilton to Remploy's Hamilton branch. The team of specialist employment advisors at the branch, who understood the challenges that Danny faced, supported him in his efforts to find - and get - a job.

A year on, Danny is in the same job he found with Remploy's support - working as part of the front of house team for City Facilities in Asda Hamilton.

Reflecting on his experience, Danny said: "I don't know where I'd be now if I hadn't been put in touch with Remploy. I was really down but working as part of a group to find jobs really lifted my spirits and it wasn't long before I was back in work - now I feel my life has a purpose again."