Career redesigned after talent drain blocked

Mar 16 2010 by Karen Dent, The Journal

A WOMAN made redundant after working in the chemicals sector for more than 20 years is aiming to switch careers to interior design after taking advantage of a scheme to retain talented people in the North East.

Karen Randles signed up to the Talent Challenge programme, which was set up a year ago to meet the demand identified by the Skills and Employment Response Group (SERG) during the recession.

Ms Randles – originally from the South East where she spent 10 years working in the chemicals sector – relocated 13 years ago with a job at Jarrow-based Rohm and Haas.

But, when she was made redundant last August, she was referred to Talent Challenge, which receives £4.65m from One North East and will run until March 2012.

Ms Randles, from Chester-le-Street, received funding to train on interior design programme Vectorworks and install the software on her home computer. She said: “I have a real passion for design and textile design and am a member of Fusion, a regionally-based group that boasts members who come together to exhibit work.

“However, I would love to progress into the commercial side of interior design and the Talent Challenge programme has not only helped me realise that’s what I want, but has given me the relevant funding to help me work towards achieving my career goal.

“Having relocated to the North East many years ago I am keen to stay here and pursue my new career as I love Newcastle.”