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Marks and Start

Lone parents returning to work

Marks & Start gives the opportunity of work experience to people of different ages and walks of life, helping them get ready to access the world of work.

Marks & Spencer is working in partnership with Gingerbread NI and Possibilities NI to deliver ‘Lone Parents Returning to Work’ as part of Marks & Start, its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility Programme.

We recognise the importance lone parents place on giving time to bringing up their children and the challenges of combining parenting with
paid work.

We also know that, for many, employment is a positive choice and their best chance of a better future for themselves and their children. Lone Parents Returning to Work aims to ease the transition into work by preparing lone parents and ensuring they know about all the support that could make it possible. This programme is available for mothers or fathers who want to get back into work.

Lone Parents Returning to Work Offers:
A work preparation training in week one (within school hours), tailored for lone parents, including:

  • confidence building, employability skills, communication, work–life balance;
  • information for single parents about tax credits and childcare options;
  • referral to organisations who can offer help and advice.

Plus:

  • induction training with Marks & Spencer;
  • two-week work experience placements, flexible, to fit around school hours;
  • buddies – support during placements for lone parents;
  • meals, travel costs and uniform provided; and
  • support – each participant will have access to support via Gingerbread Northern Ireland before, during and after their placement, including a telephone helpline.

We’ll also ensure every participant has a strategy and action plan when they leave, which includes links to local agencies for employment and further training and guidance.

How lone parents will benefit:

  • Our programme will help lone parents make an informed decision about whether returning to work is right for them.
  • It will also prepare lone parents for the world of work and refer them to jobs or other training opportunities.

Locations

The next programme will begin on June 7, 2010 at the following locations:

• Donegal Place, Belfast
• Forestside, Belfast
• Sprucefield, Lisburn
• Fairhill, Ballymena
• Abbey Centre, Newtonabbey
• Crescent Link and Foyleside, Derry/Londonderry
• Bangor
• Coleraine
• Omagh
 

Who can join the programme?

Lone parents with children of school age or younger who have been out of the job market and are actively considering returning to work. Candidates must be eligible to work in Northern Ireland and would be subject to Marks & Spencer selection criteria.

How do you join?

Call Christina on 028 9023 1417 or christina@gingerbreadni.org for more details and she will arrange a one-to-one meeting. We expect demand to be high, so do hurry.