Annual Graduation – 16.12.19

Over 2019, 30 people secured employment as a direct result of Growing Talent bringing the overall total of people into work to 163 since the first programme in February 2014.

We know from Job Centre Plus managers involved in Growing Talent, many more secured employment due to their lessons learned in the process of applying for Growing Talent.

The annual graduation is a celebration each year of the journey unemployed people selected by employers for an opportunity on Growing Talent go through.

Everyone starts from the same place. unemployed, lacking in confidence and self belief. In addition every one has their own unique barriers to overcome.

Being part of their journey through to employment is an honour. The empathy everyone has for each other, encouraging each other when things get tough is amazing to watch.

Of course, due to now being employed, not everyone can get the time off to attend Graduation. Kelly seen below at Melie White House hotel after being presented with her graduation prize by her managers Jeanne and Frances.

Graduation commenced with Jon, of PwC opening proceedings.

Jon handed proceedings over to Kat and Heaven to say a few words about their respective Growing Talent journeys…..

For the first time at any Graduation, an employer shared their views on why they decided to recruit a different way and use Growing Talent. Phil, Group Director of Facilities Management, Waterman Group below.

Below are some of the JobCentre Plus team below who support Growing Talent and refer their unemployed customers to it….

After a couple of hours catching up with each other, the evening ended. 6 programmes are planned for 2020. More great stories ahead!