Scheme is a cut above!

Jan 30 2008 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette

CHANGING YOUR looks can change your life ... and your job prospects, according to Pertemps People Development Group (PPDG) of Redcar, which has just taken its 1,500th person off the dole and into work under its Employment Zones scheme.

As part of its coaching with the Government’s welfare to work initiative, it has teemed up with Middlesbrough’s 28-year-old Franklin Depoe who came off benefits after eight months to open his own barber shop. Now he’s helping to groom others in the same situation.

Mark Fryett, manager of PPDG’s Middlesbrough centre, said: “It’s a good idea for us to link up with Franklin’s business as it will help both him and us. It’s important to prepare clients in every way for interviews and having a shave or a haircut can make a massive difference to a person’s appearance.

“It’s vital to an employer that people look presentable, it makes a good first impression and improves the client’s confidence as it makes them feel more in control. As a company we always look to re-invest in our clients who have moved into self employment by ensuring that they have the opportunity to supply services to our business.

“We have so many suppliers in our system which provide training, transport and clothing but we didn’t have one to help clients with grooming and to help them smarten up their appearance – so this is great for all concerned.”

Mr Depoe opened the Perfect Kutz barber shop on Gresham Road, in December after joining PPDG’s Employment Zone three months earlier.

PPDG has been running Employment Zone in Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland for nearly four years - during which time more than 1,500 formerly unemployed people have secured jobs.

Mr Depoe said: “I have been a barber for a while after qualifying at college and working for other people – I also had helped to manage a business so I really felt I could run my own shop. Working with PPDG as a supplier will help me a lot as it will give my customer base a boost and it will be nice to know I’m Turn to Page 2

helping other people increase their chances of getting back into work like me.

“I have wanted my own business for a long time so this means a lot to me. The help PPDG gave me was really important as it has got me to this stage and now I’m really moving forward with my life.”

Colin McNeil, Mr Depoe’s PPDG employment coach, said: “Franklin was keen to get started but didn’t realise just how many things had to be put in place. We helped guide him through and oversaw the process of getting him started.”

Centre manager Mark Harrison, said: “It’s fantastic to reach the 1,500 mark and know that we have helped that many people get into work. Opportunities can be limited in this area but we help people by finding jobs that suit their skills.”

Michael Hugill of Eston, Middlesbrough is another to have benefited from the Employment Zones scheme.

After being turned down for a job because of his scruffy appearance, the 21-year-old changed his looks and has been hired by the same company.

Mr Hugill landed his dream job as a security guard after PPDG persuaded him to take steps to improve his appearance - including cutting his shoulder-length hair.

Before joining PPDG, Mr Hugill was turned down for a position at ENSEC in Middlesbrough as his appearance did not reflect the company’s image.

Employment coach Kevin Wall, said: “When he first came to the office after having his hair cut I hardly recognised Michael. Before he was scruffy, had long greasy hair and was in need of a wash. Now Michael’s appearance gives out the impression of a person with strong self belief.

“We went through interview techniques on a regular basis, including a dress rehearsal where he had to put everything he had learned into practice from the moment he opened the centre door.”

Michael was unemployed and claiming jobseekers allowance for one year. With his existing SIA (Security Industry Authority) qualifications and new look, Michael was in work within two months of being referred to PPDG.

Mike Lloyd of ENSEC, said: “I couldn’t believe it was the same man. Before, he was generally untidy and did not interview well. The transformation was brilliant.”

Michael’s mum, Mrs Hugill, said: “He has always been a quiet lad but since meeting his employment coach, Kevin, he has become more confident. Kevin was able to give him the important push to help himself and improve his appearance. He has done wonders for Michael.”

PPDG encompasses Pertemps Employment Alliance and Pertemps Learning Employment Alliance.