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Skillcert
Sophie O'Sullivan, about 4 years ago
Skillcert are training experts. They deliver apprenticeships, commercial training, offender management and employability courses.
Skillcert work with employers across a wide range of industries to support recruitment needs. Anything from engineering, to retail, insurance and waste management.
In partnership with People Plus and WAMITAB, Skillcert delivers an employer-led recycling academy in several UK prisons.
The academy is the first of its kind for the sector and supports individuals through an industry recognised Level 2 WAMITAB qualification. So far, Skillcert have supported 313 candidates in achieving this qualification.
Following release, Skillcert's dedicated employability team transitions individuals into meaningful work with an employer partner. Impressively 30% of participants on the programme have successfully progressed into sustainable employment on release.
Scott joined the Through-the-Gate initiative. He was repeat offender. He had never been in formal employment. Skillcert recognised his potential and supported his development.
In 2018, Scott began his role as a Paint Recycling Operative with Paint 360. He was able to use the specialist skills he gained from the level 2 qualification to benefit his job.
Scott has recently enrolled on Paint 360's apprenticeship scheme.
I would recommend working with Skillcert, as they supported me to get into work and stop re-offending.
-Scott, Skillcert Programme Participant
Paint 360 are very pleased with Scott's performance and would be happy to recruit this way again in partnership with Skillcert.
Another participant Mark went onto secure sustainable employment with Veolia as a Recycling Operative in 2019. Veolia praises Skillcert's expertise in ensuring a smooth through-the-gate employment process, meeting business and candidate needs with ease.
Working with Skillcert has been invaluable for launching the Through The Gate programme in Veolia. Not only are the candidates well equipped and knowledgeable for work in our industry due to the WAMITAB qualification, but the additional support provided by Skillcert means the employment process post-release is smooth and easy, which we hope will result in better long-term outcomes.
-Sophie Gray, Assistant Project Manager, Veolia
The programme hosts regular job clubs for learners. These sessions explore interview skills, CV preparation and pathways to employment on release.
As part of this project, Skillcert run employer days and jobs fairs in prisons. Veolia joined forces with Skillcert in HMP Ranby and HMP Stocken. This offered Veolia a chance to conduct mock interviews and provide insight on what it is like to work for the company.
I think this is a good opportunity for the lads. On release Veolia offer a wide range of vacancies in waste management and are willing to give ex-prisoners a chance.
-Skillcert Particpant
In partnership with Veolia and Comensura, Skillcert also run mock interview sessions at HMP Drake Hall.
It has been helpful, some good job opportunities for people that are in prison. I think it is going to help a lot of prisoners as most places don't employ people with a criminal record. Also the people were friendly and easy to talk to so thank you.
-Skillcert Participant
Comensura were delighted to combine forces with Skillcert and join the “Through the Gate" programme which involved the rewarding task of supporting offenders on their journey from prison through to the workplace. Whilst Veolia could offer job vacancies, it was the recruitment expertise where Comensura could really add value. We identified potential job opportunities, held 1-2-1 interview sessions with current prisoners, and provided CV coaching. On a personal note, I am very proud to be a part of this worthwhile project. The programme has presented a fantastic opportunity to use our recruitment expertise for good – we can make a real difference and help to change lives which is incredibly rewarding.
-Georgina Gold, Business Partner, Comensura
Skillcert are doing incredible work supporting people in prison into meaningful employment within facilities and environmental services. Employers and prison leavers achieve positive outcomes with Skillcert.
Please do get in touch via our directory to find out more about how your business can get involved with Skillcert.