3 December 2020

Council joins key partners to help guarantee interviews for jobseekers

North Lincolnshire Council is working in partnership with North Lindsey College and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to offer on-the-job experience and a guaranteed interview to local jobseekers.

The SWAP (Sector-based work academy programme) helps get candidates job-ready and is available to anyone seeking work.

The programme, which can last up to six weeks, sees candidates undergoing pre-employment training then carrying out a work experience placement.

At the end of the placement they are guaranteed a job interview, subject to meeting the essential criteria for the council vacancies.

As well as helping jobseekers, SWAP helps employers recruit staff with the training and skills they need. It is also an ideal opportunity for existing staff to develop their mentoring, supervisory and coaching skills.

The council has signed up to run a SWAP every other month to give people an insight into working for a local authority and gain an understanding of the application process.

Cllr Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is exactly the kind of initiative we are happy to be involved in. It not only helps get jobseekers back into work, it helps us recruit the right people.

“We look forward to welcoming our first SWAP candidates.”

Anne Brewster, DWP Employer and Partnership Manager for North Lincolnshire, said: “We welcome working in partnership with North Lincolnshire Council to give local people the knowledge and skills, using a sector-based work academy, to apply for the varied roles within the local authority.

“It is fantastic that working together, bringing in other key partners we can support those looking for work with a strong offer. I look forward to seeing this progress.”

For more information about SWAP speak to your Jobcentre Work Coach or put a message in your Universal Credit journal.

Cllr Waltham (right) is pictured with Scunthorpe Jobcentre Plus Universal Credit Operations Manager Craig Thomas (left) and SWAP candidates Joi Cook and Bradley Tidmarch.