Employability can be defined as ‘the combination of factors and processes which enable people to progress towards or get into employment, to stay in employment and to move on in the workplace.’
Employability can mean anything from encouraging people to become more active by volunteering or by joining a group, to supporting someone to do a training course that helps them to prepare for work. Working towards employment can help people become more independent and give them a sense of achievement and can often lead to improvements in physical and mental health.
A recent study reported up to 40% of people on health-related benefits want to work, many of whom will be in contact with Social Work Services.
There is no expectation that Social Work staff become employment experts but that, as part of the care provided, we consider a client’s employability aspirations and link with employability services if appropriate. Clearly not all service users might be ready or able due to their circumstances.
Multi Agency Employability Services
Multi agency Employability Teams have been developed in each of the 3 social work areas to offer employability services directly to local social work staff and service users.
The Teams offer employability support and advice to help people access the service that will best help them overcome barriers they have to moving towards work. This could include helping people develop more confidence, learn new skills and trying out different activities.
The Teams will often operate within social work premises and work closely with staff to ensure the best service for the client.
These services are a good ‘first step’ for finding out more about employability services and as well as being able to offer support in their own right, they will have a good understanding of all the support available, including financial support to help people move into work and childcare services.
The information below contains contact details for the services in each local social work area.