With current staff shortages and tougher financial times these are challenging times for any business. In light of this DurhamWorks offer potential employers assistance in accessing a grant to help towards the cost of employing a young person.
One organisation who took advantage of the grant is Speedo Car Parts in Crook, who are suppliers of car parts and accessories. They used the grant to offer Nathan Thompson a role with their organisation which turned into a permanent position.
In his role at Speedo Car Parts Nathan engages in dealing with customers both over the phone and in person, helping with incoming and outgoing deliveries and assisting with other general duties around the shop.
Nathan feels incredibly positive about working at Speedo Car Parts: “The best part is the atmosphere as I made to feel welcome and supported by other members of staff. Also having a manager who cares about their staff and does not consider them to be just another number.”
As well as giving Nathan an opportunity for paid work at Speedo Car Parts has developed Nathan in other ways “Working at speedo has improved my overall confidence” he added.
This is reflected in the words of Lorraine Reid, who manages Nathan. “There has been a lot of changes for Nathan. He is more confident, and this has improved a lot. as he was initially quite shy and nervous and was reluctant to ask questions or ask for help. His skills and knowledge have also increased. He is able to work more independently, still asks questions when needed but willing to try to use his own initiative first.”
Lorraine is extremely positive about the support they received through DurhamWorks. “Nathan had interviewed for a job we had available but someone else had been successful instead. However, we spoke to Michele Atkinson, DurhamWorks Employer Engagement Officer, and discussed this and possible options going forward.”
“Michele mentioned DurhamWorks funding that we could possibly access, and this would offer him the opportunity to show us what he was capable off whilst analysing if having an extra employee is viable for the business and we wanted to give him a chance. Both Nathan and ourselves went into it knowing that if it proved successful then there was the opportunity for long term employment for him with us.”
Lorraine also highlighted the opportunities that DurhamWorks can offer to young people who are not currently in employment and suggested that it is something other businesses should definitely consider. “If they are serious about offering the young person employment at the end of it if the trial is successful then it is worth giving the DurhamWorks programme a go. If the young person is willing to put the work in and try, then you have the opportunity to give someone regular employment that may otherwise not get it.”
Nathan is also positive about his DurhamWorks experience and would recommend them to other people in the same situation as him, “I would definitely recommend Durham works as they are always supportive and good to work with.”
If you are 16 – 24 years old, living in County Durham and Not in education, employment, or training contact DurhamWorks. The DurhamWorks team is made up of professionals who help and support young people, providing them with careers information, advice, and guidance. We work in local communities across County Durham and can visit you and your and families in your home, if required.