Employability Day in Louth supports local people into work, training and volunteering
Jobseekers in Louth and the surrounding areas received tailored, person-centred employment support at The Salvation Army’s Employability Day, held last week.
The drop-in event held at The Salvation Army in Church Street brought together a wide range of local organisations including National Energy Action, Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Services, CVS Lincolnshire, Libertas Care Services, Lincolnshire Outdoor Learning, DWP, Shine, Age UK, NHS, BroPro and The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus service, all working collaboratively to offer advice, training pathways, volunteering opportunities and access to live vacancies.
Throughout the day, attendees engaged directly with employability specialists to explore practical next steps into work, education or volunteering.
The event highlighted the breadth of support needed by those currently outside the labour market:
One attendee with over 30 years’ experience in dementia care is now seeking part-time work due to caring responsibilities for a parent with Alzheimer’s. With support from Employment Plus and local employability partner Tracey Smith, they are now exploring roles in mentoring, social prescribing and the voluntary sector, alongside developing digital skills and a refreshed CV.
Another attendee, currently studying maths and managing additional learning needs, received guidance on progressing to Level 2 qualifications, apprenticeships and opportunities in both business administration and digital marketing. They were also signposted to a digital marketing skills bootcamp offering accredited training and a guaranteed interview.
A third individual, who has been building confidence through volunteering while managing long-term mental health challenges, was supported to recognise transferable skills gained across community roles and begin planning a transition into paid employment later this year.
These interactions reflect the importance of holistic, tailored support in helping individuals overcome barriers and move towards sustainable employment.
The event also showcased the value of partnership working in supporting local communities.
Richard Loach, Salvation Army Employment Plus Regional Manager for the East and West Midlands, said: “It was incredibly encouraging to see people engage with the support on offer at our Louth Employability Day. Every conversation reinforced why person-centred, partnership-led support is so important. Many people face complex barriers, but with the right guidance, encouragement and opportunities, they can take meaningful steps towards employment and renewed confidence.”
Kat Dawes, Community and Volunteering Officer at CVS Lincolnshire, said: “It was lovely to attend The Salvation Army’s Employability Day in Louth. It was a great opportunity to share information about the services we offer, and to talk to people about the benefits of volunteering to improve employability.”
Tracey Bailey, local Salvation Army Employment Plus Practitioner, added: “Events like this are vital in helping people feel supported and understood. We meet individuals at all stages of their journey, many of whom have faced significant challenges, and help them build confidence, recognise their strengths and take practical steps towards work, training or volunteering.”
The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus service is delivered from 327 Salvation Army churches, centres and hostels for people who are homeless. The service also works in 230 other locations such as at Job Centre plus or other local partners, and 13 prisons, focusing on long-term outcomes, helping individuals build confidence, gain skills and access sustainable opportunities.
Local partners also offer continued support beyond the event:
Age UK Lincolnshire – offering employment and volunteering opportunities focused on supporting older people.
CVS Lincolnshire (Volunteering and community support) - for volunteering opportunities and information.
BroPro - a Lincolnshire based project set up to support men who are in need of help.
National Energy Action – working to end energy poverty in the UK
Libertas Care Services – supporting both adults and old people in Lincolnshire
Together, these organisations form a network of support helping individuals across Lincolnshire move closer to meaningful employment while strengthening the wider community.
For more information about the Employability Day in Louth, contact The Salvation Army on [email protected] or visit https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/employment-plus