Enable is working on a new initiative as part of an East Midlands pilot project launched by Jobcentre Plus which started on 7th November 2011.

The Community Action Programme (CAP) is intended to help claimants move off benefits and into employment by equipping them with a valuable period of work experience, enabling them to develop disciplines and skills associated with sustained employment.  For example, the work placement involves attending on time, on a regular basis as part of a working routine, carrying out specific tasks, working under supervision and helping them capitalise on this through directed job search support. The guidance notes for the CAP are available on the DWP website.

The programme is open to voluntary or community-based organisations who wish to take on a placement for a period of 26 weeks. The individual would work for 30 hours and carry out up to 10 additional hours of supported job search with Enable.  

We currently have placements in areas such as administration, retail, catering and gardening.  During the placement the individual remains on their benefits until they find a job.  Limited funding is available to support childcare and bus fare cost for participants.

If your organisation is interested in offering a placement and giving someone valuable work experience, please contact Alona
Ashkenazi, Placements Officer at Enable. For further information please email Alona at alona@enable.uk.net or telephone her on 0115 934 9517.