Highland initiative launches new website to help people into work
A new Highland partnership aiming to proactively support people into work has launched its website.
The launch of the website, www.worklifehighland.co.uk, coincides with the start of Scottish Careers Week 2024.
Work. Life. Highland is the brand name for the Highland Employability Partnership (HEP), which brings together public, private and third sector organisations supporting people on their journey towards, into and within employment.
Chairman of Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee, Councillor Ken Gowans, said: “The launch today is a big step forward in providing people who are looking to start work, return to work after a break or change careers, with all the information they need in one place.
“The website is designed to encourage people to get in touch as this is the most important first step in the process of securing work. Over time, more and more content in the form of real-life case studies and opportunities will be added to demonstrate what is possible.
“I’d like to thank our employability team and all partners for their hard work. By working together, we hope to raise as many residents as possible out of poverty through sustainable and fair work, assisting both individuals and employers across the Highlands unlock their work potential.”
Skills Development Scotland team leader Nicola Madej said: “We are excited to collaborate with other agencies across Highland to ensure that Highland people, whether they are entering the workplace for the first time, considering a change, or returning after a break are fully supported to develop the skills they need to navigate the changing world of work. This is particularly a focus in Scottish Careers Week which shines a light on the career support available to people of all ages across our area.”
The website www.worklifehighland.co.uk was launched in a bid to provide a simple and clear “front door” point of entry to encourage potential clients and employers to get in touch and find out more about the help and support on offer.
The site is structured around three key themes, aimed at guiding people to find out more in relation to their circumstances.
For those wanting a job, the site covers the likes of starting work for the first time, getting back into work after a career break, and enhanced support for people with extra barriers such as disability, long-term health conditions, or long-term unemployment.
Elsewhere, the site also provides support and advice for people who already have a job and want to progress, such as those working and in receipt of universal credit and seeking to gain skills which will potentially help raise their household income.
The site also offers support employers by creating opportunities for those seeking the likes of employment, work experience, volunteering and workplace tasters. It also helps businesses connect with people who have the potential to become valued members of staff.
Also to coincide with Scottish Careers Week, the council is running a week-long virtual jobs fair which starts today (Monday). Anyone interested in finding out more about career opportunities, looking to change careers or to return to work after a break will be able to log onto sessions hosted by a number of businesses from the comfort of their own home.
