Programme launched to help jobless into work
From left Mr Martin Magennis, Director at Time Associates; Mr Andrew Orr, General Manager at Premier Inn Lisburn and Alderman Jim Dillon, Chairman of the Council's Economic Development Committee.
RECRUITMENT is starting shortly for the next round of the popular
Hospitality and Retail Training for Employment (HARTE) programme, which
is open to unemployed people in Lisburn and Belfast.
Launched in January 2009 the HARTE programme is designed to provide
long-term unemployed individuals with the opportunity to gain personal
development and vocational training qualifications. Tbese qualifications
and skills will then enable them to access job opportunities in the
hospitality, retail and related employment sectors.
Alderman Jim Dillon, Chairman of the Council's Economic Development
Committee, said: "There are many exciting opportunities in both the
hospitality and retail sectors locally, and this programme will ensure
that local residents are equipped with the necessary skills and
knowledge to ensure
they are best placed to access these."
Holly, a mum of three, was a participant in the HARTE programme last year. She said: "The programme gave me qualifications, skills and confidence. Without the programme I wouldn't be in the job I am in now."
Over 90 participants of the last HARTE programme gained employment in a wide variety of hospitality and retail positions.
Over 190 participants gained recognised qualifications and completed personal development courses.
Mr Martin Magennis, Director at Time Associates, added: "The HARTE programme is an excellent initiative for offering professional support and skills training to those seeking employment in the hospitality and retail sectors. I am delighted that previous graduates have secured employment despite the difficult competition for jobs in the current economic climate and I wish future participants every success on the programme."
The programme is jointly funded by Lisburn City Council, Belfast City Council and the European Social Fund and is support( by the Department for Employment an Learning (DEL).
To find out more about HARTE, contact GEMS NI on freephone 0800 731 0641 email harte@gemsni.org.uk
Ulster Star
23/12/2011
