Skills training effort rewarded with prize and job

Jun 17 2009 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette

A LEADING regional Welfare-to-Work organisation is celebrating after one of its clients won a top national skills award.

Pertemps People Development Group (PPDG) worked with Jason Churchill for more than 12 months to support him in his job search after battling unemployment for almost two years.

This work was recognised as some of the best in the country after Mr Churchill fought off competition from more than 100 people to win the national gold award.

The Local Employment Partnership awards ceremony, held in London, was hosted by the Employment Minister Jim Knight on behalf of Jobcentre Plus.

Mr Churchill, from Southbank in Middlesbrough, got a job with Asda, in Teesport, after working intensively with PPDG to build his confidence and skill base.

Mark Harrison, PPDG’s Redcar centre manager, said: “The past 12 months have been extraordinary for Jason. From the first moment he walked into our offices he has welcomed all the support we have provided him and jumped at any opportunity to learn.

“This award win is also a huge pat on the back for us as it highlights what we do provides positive impact on people’s lives. It is also a great testament to our relationship with Asda and their fantastic in-house training which has enabled Jason to continue to grow.”

The award win comes after a difficult two-year period of unemployment for Mr Churchill, who now works as a warehouse operator: “It is unbelievable really to think of how much I have achieved in the past 12 months.

“I am very proud of myself to be honest although it would not have been made possible without the support from PPDG, my employer or my family. I can’t thank them all enough.

“It is onwards and upwards for me and I am very ambitious to continue my learning programme with Asda and build on my successes.”

For more information on the support available, call PPDG’s Redcar Office on 01642 495460.