We helped deliver an employment skills workshop aimed at supporting job seekers in the Black Country.
Five young people attended the three-day course, hosted by Jewson Partnership Solutions and Dudley Council at their shared workspace.
The initiative focused on individuals who have experienced long-term unemployment, offering a structured and supportive environment where participants could gain new perspectives, enhance their employability, and begin to rebuild their professional networks.
Catherine, one of our customers who attended the workshop, said:
“I really enjoyed the three days and feel more confident about looking for work or training opportunities.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect when I signed up, but I am glad I attended all the sessions.”
Throughout the workshop, attendees took part in hands-on learning, group activities, and guided sessions aimed at strengthening communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The programme also emphasised personal development, helping participants to grow in confidence and better understand their own strengths and potential.
Commenting on the experience, Bryon, who attended all three sessions, said:
“I was previously in work but was made redundant. The timing of this opportunity was perfect, as I have a job interview coming up which I now feel more prepared for.”
The workshop also aimed to foster a sense of community and belonging, enabling participants to build relationships with peers and mentors who can support them beyond the programme.
“Our goal is to create meaningful opportunities for people who may feel disconnected from the job market,” said Lisa Greenhalgh, Social Value Lead at Jewson Partnership Solutions. “By providing a supportive space to learn, connect, and grow, we hope to empower participants to take the next steps towards sustainable employment.”
Jewson Partnership Solutions ran this employability boot camp in Dudley as part of their social value commitment, linked to their role as our preferred materials supplier.
Sian Every, our Community Investment and Social Value Lead, said:
“It is fantastic to hear that the five young people who attended the workshop found the sessions useful. This success was made possible through collaboration between GSA, Jewson Partnership Solutions, and Dudley Council.”
“Our supply chain partners are required to make social value commitments when bidding to deliver contracts. Jewson Partnership Solutions made a series of employability-related commitments in their tender, including supporting candidates from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds, delivering mentoring and career guidance sessions, and creating new apprenticeships and work experience placements.”
In addition to creating employment opportunities and supporting job seekers in the communities we serve, Jewson Partnership Solutions have contributed to our Community Impact Fund and provided skips for community clean-up days.