04 September 2015
Charities and organisations across the Island with projects which need manpower to get off the ground are being reminded of the support available to them through the Community Jobs Fund.
The Community Jobs Fund (CJF) is a Back to Work initiative which creates community-based jobs for long-term unemployed jobseekers. It also enables charities and organisations to kick-start projects that might not otherwise happen due to a lack of resources.
The CJF can help match organisations with a suitable candidate, fund up to 6 months’ salary and assist with related costs such as training. Whatever the size or focus of the organisation if there is a need for a new role which will have a community benefit the CJF team would like to hear from them.
Since it was launched in 2013 the CJF has enabled 75 organisations to carry out a variety of community-based projects. Around 120 jobseekers have participated in the scheme gaining valuable experience and developing transferable skills, of those 60% have gone on to secure unsubsidised employment.
Wide range of charity roles
Organisations that have benefited from the scheme so far have included parishes, sports clubs and a wide range of charities. Among the roles created there have been:
- support workers
- assistant caretakers
- events coordinators
- administration and retail assistants
The Minister for Social Security, Deputy Susie Pinel, said “Tackling unemployment has long been a priority for the Department but this is not simply about reducing figures. Our approach must be sustainable and holistic. We need to ensure we are addressing the barriers to employment as well as recognising the challenges facing employers. Through the fund we have an opportunity to achieve both these goals as well as supporting projects which benefit many Islanders.
There is no substitute for experience and when that is coupled with positive outcomes for the wider community there is a great deal to be proud of. We are already working with a range of organisations and employers but I’d urge anyone who believes the Community Jobs Fund could assist their organisation to get in touch.”
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