Hundreds of unemployed residents across the Royal Borough of Greenwich are being helped back into work, thanks to the work of the Council’s Greenwich Opportunities, Learning & Development (GOLD) Programme and Manpower.

GOLD was launched to help residents who were at risk from benefit cuts. It aimed to help them overcome barriers to employment, by providing paid work experience placements and employment-based training.

Not only does Manpower employ all participants on the scheme, but the team also provide them with on-going support through their transition into employment.

Since the programme was launched in April 2013, 231 unemployed residents have benefited from this employment springboard, many of whom have been out of work for years or had never worked.

60% of participants who completed the scheme have gained onward employment, representing a far higher result than mainstream programmes.

GOLD was initially launched by the Council to place participants in its Environment Services team, and with Manpower’s help it has since expanded across other service areas, including Housing, Children’s Services and Revenues and Benefits – testament to the success of the Council’s scheme and Manpower’s on-going dedication to helping the unemployed get back into work.