I am developing a project to provide people with offences & mental health issues with workplace development, real work opportunities & vocational support & continuity throughout their discharge pathway.
I am currently working with people across London & S.E and have contact with MSUs, hostels & my Trusts work projects.
I work with individuals developing work based knowledge, skills & behaviour in a variety of employment opportunities from gardening, painting & decorating through to office work & catering.
The next stage of this exciting project is to achieve the ultimate goal - paid employment! I have been very encouraged by the amount of C.I.P.D literature & surveys covering this issue but wonder in practice where to start with employment opportunities?
I would be very grateful for information relating to sympathetic employers or advice from anyone with experience or knowledge in this area.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sarah
sarah james
2 Responses
Employment opportunities
Sarah
The legislation that refers to these individuals – The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and the Disability Discrimination Act helps to protect their rights in the prevention of discrimination.
With the former piece of legislation the “life” of the offence expires after a certain period of time although it will appear on a CRB check. I think it is best for the individuals to be up front about their offences so that the employer can consider whether the job they are applying for will be affected by this (eg an accountant who has been convited of theft). The individuals have the right not to be discriminated against due to their past misdemeanours.
With the DDA this is also valid. Many public sector organisations state in their job advertisements that candiates meeting the essential criteria on the person spec will be guaranteed an interview. Once in the interview room it is down to the individual to show they have the skills to do the job.
Prior to seeking paid employment it might be an idea to contact voluntary organisations to gain some new/recent work experience which can be added to the individuals CV.
I hope this helps.
Sandra Beale MCIPD
http://www.sjbealehrconsult.co.uk
07762 771290
Employment
Hi Sarah
I work for a mental health Charity – Rethink severe mental illness. We are an organisation that provides many services for individuals with mental health problems, including employment services.
We have several services that assist with employment. Please contact me and I will sort out a contact name and number of one of our services close to you that may be of assistance.
Judith Dudley
Training Officer
Rethink
[email protected]