Over 400 Royal Greenwich Residents Benefit From Council Job Scheme

by our RGB Correspondent | Woolwich

Hundreds of struggling residents have struck gold by getting a job thanks to an innovative royal borough jobs scheme. 

The GOLD scheme is a council-run initiative which guards residents against hardship by helping them to gain new skills and work experience so they have a better chance of getting a job.

Since its launch in 2013 nearly 400 residents have benefited - with 73 per cent of participants completing six-month paid work placements and going on to employment as a result. 

GOLD, which stands for Greenwich Opportunities Learning and Development, is specially designed for residents who are affected by recent welfare reforms or those involved with the royal borough’s Families First programme. 

The programme offers specific support to residents dealing with issues involving youth crime, antisocial behaviour, high levels of truancy, health concerns or adult unemployment. As well as the paid work experience placements, GOLD also offers a oneyear apprenticeship scheme for young people. 

So far 288 people have been helped into the placements, with 103 young residents under 25 benefiting from the apprenticeships. 

The scheme also provides a range of additional support for residents who need it, including one-to-one help, interview preparation and training, dedicated childcare support, part-time shifts compatible with school hours and supported job-searching.

Mum Lisa was referred to Families First through her son’s school and has been working in caretaking with the council for a month. She said: “It was a bit scary but the support was there when I needed it and it’s given me a more positive outlook. It’s such a valuable experience. It’s really improving my confidence, helping me to be more outgoing and giving me focus and direction.”

Angela, who was referred by the council’s welfare reform team, was selected after an interview with GLLaB, the borough’s jobs and training agency. She said: “I am now on a caretaker placement in Abbey Wood. I’m really happy with my job - it’s good to be part of a team. The placement is going to help me develop and look after the local environment – it’s important to keep my area clean and clear of rubbish.” 

Councillor Denise Scott-McDonald, the council’s cabinet member for community wellbeing and public health (picture) said: “I am proud that the council is successfully supporting local people and tackling the hardships affecting out of work residents hit by the welfare reforms. “GOLD’s innovative approach helps residents gain the skills and experience towards permanent employment and is delivering positive outcomes beyond those seen for similar national schemes.” 

Residents can find out more about GLLaB and the support it offers at www. royalgreenwich.gov.uk/GLLaB.