Work and training

Mind has an Employment Development Officer providing a variety of help within our Employment Service to help people overcome their barriers and take steps towards their chosen work-related goal, whether that is to get employment or training, or to retain your present employment/help with difficulties with your employer, or to leave a job on the best terms.

We all know the difficulties associated with going to work: the fear of an unknown environment, lack of recent experience, threat of benefits loss, stigma and misunderstandings, lack of confidence and so on. Information, guidance and support, and opportunities to try things out, can all help to overcome these real concerns

Our Employment Development Officer can help with information on the local labour market, recruitment and selection procedures, where to look for work, what courses are available locally, how work affects benefits, your employment rights etc.

She can also provide guidance and support in the form of career counselling, help with job searching, C.V.s, applications and interviews, accompanied visits to colleges and appointments, understanding of your mental health needs, advocating or negotiating on your behalf with your employer or other agencies, guidance through the employment legislation, support with colleagues, positive feedback and confidence raising, etc.

The Employment Development Officer can also find opportunities to develop skills, motivation and working routines in an environment best suited to your interests and needs. These might include supported placements in light manufacturing or at our organic horticulture scheme, voluntary placements, work placements.

Funded by Solihull Care Trust