What is Training for Employment (TfE)?
We offer up to 12 months of paid employment with Vico Homes through our TfE Programme to help adults who are unemployed and living in a one of our homes back into work.
The programme provides you with relevant training, work skills and mentoring throughout; helping you to succeed in the role, and to be in a better position when applying for further employment at the end of the programme.
Ongoing training with advice and guidance is delivered by the TfE Team to ensure that all participants on the programme get the most out of the experience.
The programme will help you to build a work record with a large and trusted local employer, giving you a good foundation for further employment.
How two weeks of work experience launched a new career
Vico Homes customer Sean was keen to gain some work experience that would help him learn new skills and start a career that could support him. He was excited to take the first step when he joined us for two weeks work experience with the Stores Team.
During his work experience, Sean was open about his autism diagnosis and the goals he had set for himself. He wanted to learn to work in a new environment with new people, listening and following instructions and communicating effectively with others.
With the support of the Stores Team and the mentorship of Team Leader, Debbie Salmon, Sean went from strength to strength. The two weeks flew by, and he needed to think about his next steps.
This is when Sean found out about an opportunity for a 12-month paid work placement through ourTraining for Employment Scheme (TfE), which offers opportunities for unemployed customers to learn skills and earn a wage.
Working closely with Sarah Aucott, Community Employment Advisor, Sean prepared for his interview. Overcoming his nerves was his biggest challenge. Sarah worked with Sean on possible interview questions and how he could use his recent work experience to help him get the role. He was thrilled when he got the news that he had been successful in gaining a place on the TFE scheme.
As Sean got settled into his new placement his confidence continued to grow. He gained new valuable skills and started looking for a permanent position to thrive in.
After a few months, a permanent position became available in the Waste Management Team with us. Sean was encouraged by his team to apply, and Sarah was right there to support Sean through the interview process again. They completed mock interviews and Sarah gave Sean constructive feedback that would help him in his final interview.
This preparation and Sean’s can-do attitude were key in him successfully securing this new permanent role as a Waste Management Technician at Vico Homes.
Sean said: “I feel incredibly comfortable with the people I am working with. I am very grateful for the support that Debbie and the Team have given me. Without the opportunity to do work experience with the team, I wouldn’t have got a place on the Training for Employment scheme. I’m looking forward continuing to develop skills and keep working for Vico Homes.”
Sarah added: “Sean’s work ethic, his attitude and his ability to overcome his personal obstacles has meant that people have seen the value he can bring to a team. His determination led to his success on the TfE programme and now his permanent role with us. Sean is a valued member of our workforce.”