"Supporting you after you start work"
The Aspire Programme is a local initiative that has been set up to help people remain in long-term employment. It is a nine-month scheme that is designed to offer continued support, advice and guidance to people who are starting work after a lengthy absence. The aim of the programme is to help clients settle into a new job and to progress. A dedicated retention and progression officer is there to act as a mentor and to help to resolve any concerns that clients may have.

These could be, for example, lack of confidence, training needs, personal issues, benefit advice, transport or childcare issues etc. If requested by the client, the mentor can also liaise with the employer on their behalf. It is a confidential service, therefore, information is not be shared with either party without full consent.

Case studies have shown that individuals have found the support provided by Aspire invaluable. The programme helped them to stay in employment, progress within their jobs and increase household incomes. Employers also benefited as labour turnover rates were greatly reduced and it avoided the inconvenience and related costs associated with recruitment.

The Aspire programme is voluntary and there are eligibility restrictions. It is a service that is offered to clients at a time when they most need support and encouragement. If you need anymore details about the programme please ring Margaret on 0151 448 7863 or 0151 448 1131 or ask any member of the Jet staff.

Case Study
The following case study highlights the varied nature of assistance required by people on the programme and thereby illustrates the need for a flexible, tailored approach to client support.

Michael
Michael was unemployed when he registered with Jet Eastern Link. He received advice and guidance to find employment with 'Skate Above Zero' as a general operative, providing general assistance and customer service to users of an outdoor ice skating rink.

Michael was delighted when he secured the job as ice-skating was his hobby. However, he had never done any work of this nature before, therefore, he was nervous about starting work. The job was based in Southport and would involve a great deal of travelling. As the job was full time this would have a great impact on his working day, so he needed to make adjustments to his lifestyle. After meeting the Retention and Progression Officer, Michael felt that he would benefit from the ongoing support offered by the Aspire Programme.

Michael's Aspire Officer advised him on funding to help pay towards his substantial travel costs. Michael asked if his employer could be involved from the outset as he expressed a wish to progress in his job and felt it would be beneficial for his employer to be part of the programme.

After a short period, Michael's Aspire Officer contacted him to find out how he was doing. He said that he was enjoying the job and making good progress. He said he was really keen to become an ice-skating coach and required information on how to achieve this. The Aspire Officer found a suitable course and then made enquiries with regards to the application process. The cost of the course was £155 and would last for 8 weeks.

The Aspire Officer contacted Skill Works, which is an organisation that is able to contribute 60% of vocational training costs for small to medium enterprises. The employer would then be required to fund 40%. The Aspire Officer confirmed that Michael would be eligible and then contacted his employer to find out if they would agree to part fund this training. They agreed to do so. The Aspire Officer then arranged for Michael's employer to liaise with Skill Works directly to set up funding.

Michael has now been employed for 6 months and is progressing well both in his job and his training. His employer encouraged him to develop his skills by practising coaching under supervision. The present coach was soon to leave and it was anticipated that Michael would take over this role, subject to passing his qualification. This would also mean a pay rise for Michael.

Michael believes that his participation in the Retention and Progression (Aspire) Programme has helped him to settle in his new role. It has provided him with a valuable opportunity to enhance his future prospects in his new career.