Lifeline for Newly Unemployed

Professionals made redundant in the recession are being supported in their job search by Integrated HR (IHR), Jonathan Lee Recruitment's HR consulting arm, as part of a Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) scheme entitled Jobsearch Support Service for Newly Unemployed Professionals. Jobcentres across the country have been inundated with job seekers and have been struggling to cope, particularly given the number of managers and professionals, with a broad range of skills and experience, entering the job market.

IHR is one of a number of providers across the country chosen to provide additional support to newly unemployed professionals. Following meetings earlier this year, the DWP has also based its specification for the scheme on IHR's outplacement model, meaning that all providers must follow this outline. The initiative aims to give job seekers information and advice on looking for a job in the current climate, plus help with CV writing, interviewing and other selection techniques, such as psychometric testing and assessment centres. Delegates on the IHR programme also have access to the Company’s web-based Knowledge Centre, offering additional tools and support.

IHR has so far run 12 workshops, in addition to 3 individual sessions, helping over 50 people. Delegates have ranged from product engineers to corporate lawyers and feedback has been wholly positive.

One delegate was Vince Painter from Walsall, who took part in an individual session with IHR: “Following an excellent programme delivered by IHR, I attended my 'dream job' interview. I didn't stumble at all and felt that I answered the competency questions very well."

Henry Noteman, IHR Operations Manager, said: “Many people made redundant won't be lucky enough to have access to outplacement support through their employer and with so many professional people entering the job market in the last 12 months, Jobcentres are finding it hard to offer the right kind of support to many coming through their doors. As specialists in outplacement, we aim to use our expertise to help many of these people back into work.”

IHR is now developing the next stage of the programme, which will involve translating its approach into online webinars. This will give people who aren’t able to travel to the workshops access to the same kind of support.

Integrated HR is running workshops in the vicinity of its five offices in Stourbridge, Wakefield, Basildon, St Albans and Leicester. Enrolment on the programme must be via Jobcentre Plus, which will make arrangements with Integrated HR. Integrated HR will then be in touch regarding a place on the programme.

henry.noteman@integratedhr.co.uk

www.integratedhr.co.uk

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