Steps 2 Success programme helps 6773 jobseekers into work

The Employment Related Services Association (ERSA) has today welcomed figures showing that Steps 2 Success, Northern Ireland’s biggest current employment support programme, has helped 6773 jobseekers into work since the programme began in October 2014 until June 2016.

ERSA is particularly pleased to see that young people are performing well on this programme, with 33% of young jobseekers who joined the programme in the first nine months moving into work. The release only gives full information on those who started the programme from October 2014 and June 2015, as the majority of these clients have now finished the programme.

ERSA, Head of Policy and Communications, Sam Windett:

“ERSA welcomes the news that 6773 jobseekers have been supported into the workplace with help with the Steps 2 Success programme. Finding a job can be truly life changing and we should applaud the hard work and determination of every individual who has worked so hard to move into the workplace, as well as the people and organisations who support them on their journey.”

Steps 2 Success is provided by lead contractors in partnership with a network of local organisations who deliver high quality support across Northern Ireland. The programme is for those jobseekers who have spent a significant amount of time out of employment or have a health condition or disability. This means that people being helped by the programme are likely to be a significant distance from the labour market, with each job gained representing a significant achievement for that individual and a potential transformation in their lives and that of their families.

All lead contractors for the Steps 2 Success programme are members of ERSA, which is the representative body for the employment support sector in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
 

Notes to Editors

1. The Employment Related Services Association (ERSA) is the sector body for those delivering or with an interest in employment support services in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.  ERSA’s membership spans the private, voluntary and public sectors and ranges from large multi-nationals through to small charities.  It has over 230 members, including all prime contractors of Steps 2 Success. The majority of its members are not for profit.
2. The latest statistics on Steps to Success can be found here.
3. Additional case studies and images are available on request.