May’s Northumberland Employability Network forum

In May, 56 members of the network came together online to hear the latest updates in the Northumberland employability sector and to listen to guest presenters sharing information to support delivery of employability services. 

We heard from Michelle Brannen, at Business in the Community, about the benefits of their Job Coaching programme where professionals from major employers offer their expertise and guidance to those looking to move into employment. David Burnett and Connor Massey of Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust shared details of the trusts routeways into employment from work experience to apprenticeships and showcased the upskilling potential which can be achieved as an employee through internal pathways, qualifications and development. With support available via the Northumberland Small Business Service, Lucy Evermore of Business Northumberland explained the services, training and grants available to those interested in self-employment through to businesses looking to develop and expand. 

An overview of the latest data for the labour market in Northumberland showed the importance of our services collaborating collectively, together with our residents and employers, to meet the needs of all and deliver a land of great opportunities. 

Employability Day this year is 20 June, and you will see many of our network providers on social media over the next few weeks, working as part of the Work Smart Live Well service supporting this great event. Residents are invited to Cramlington Hub on Tuesday’s, 9.30am – 1pm, to meet with a range of organisations who support progress into employment. 

Network members and their colleagues are invited to join the next Northumberland Employability Network event on 11 June. At our Training Provider Showcase event we will hear from Disability North, Society Matters and WEA about a great range of funded training available to Northumberland residents.