But thanks to a £3 million in training grants provided by the Learning and Skills Council, East of England Development Agency and co-funded the European Social Fund, TCHC is able to offer parents free ‘Skills for Jobs’ training, a range of pre-employment support and advice aimed at building confidence, skills and qualifications.

Dale Morgan, Managing Director of TCHC, said: “The credit crunch is putting a lot of pressure on families and many parents are faced with finding a job once their child reaches four or five years old. In many cases that parent won’t have worked for some time and can feel daunted by the prospect of returning to work. Worries over qualifications being outdated, lack of IT knowledge and general self-confidence issues are common place.”

Dale continued, “By accessing government grants on behalf of the learners, TCHC can help returners to work with a whole host of free employment support. This includes advice and support in areas such as CV writing, interview skills, confidence building, through to sector specific training and accredited qualifications. TCHC can also support individuals into specific job opportunities by tailoring training to the individual requirements of the employers with vacancies.

“TCHC also runs a successful matching service. We are in contact many employers in the East Region who have specific job opportunities. Even if a person doesn’t have the exact skills to match a vacancy we will still put them in touch with the employer and equip them with the skills they need. Bringing the two together is one of the most rewarding parts of the service that TCHC offer.”

Justin, who lives in Suffolk, has recently moved back into employment as a plumber and gas fitter. He was absolutely delighted with the support he received from the Skills for Jobs service delivered by TCHC.

“If I hadn’t had the advice and encouragement from Skills for Jobs I would have struggled to find the motivation to move back into work. I can’t recommend this programme more highly.”

If you or someone you know would benefit from Skills for Jobs training and live or work in the East of England, please contact TCHC on 01923 698 430, email s4j@tchc.net or alternatively visit www.tchc.net to find out what funded training programmes are available.

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Editor’s Notes:

About TCHC (www.tchc.net)

The Consultancy Home Counties Ltd (TCHC) is a specialist company in business and workforce development solutions operating throughout the East of England, offering expert advice across all industry sectors.

TCHC has contracts with the Learning and Skills Council, East of England Development Agency, European Social Fund and others to engage with employers and employees to discuss Government-funded skills, advice and training opportunities.

For further information, please contact:

Justine Smith

PR Manager, Black Pig

T: 01763 222 333

E: justine.smith@blackpig.co.uk