People First People with learning disabilities are more prone to social isolation. They can be excluded from the labour market, leaving them without financial independence and freedom of choice. People First runs an academy in Carlisle that provides education programmes for more than 35 vulnerable people per year. Its Creating Careers employability project helps People First graduates move into outside employment, matching local employers with those looking for work. Job Coaches assess learners for independence and work-ready skills and support them over 6-12 weeks into work placements. David Blacklock, CEO of People First said: One individual with a mild learning disability and Cerebral Palsy had been attending People First’s Hospitality Programme for five years. He needed support with fine motor skills, reading and writing, and worked best if given one task at a time. He was placed with Thomas Graham, a Carlislebased steel stockholder and industrial retailer employing over 200 people. In this very different environment, he was given tasks such as scanning stock, picking orders and helping to serve customers. While he still required support from the Job Coach with reading and inputting information, his confidence increased. He struck up a friendship with a colleague who he now goes for a pint with and plays games with online, a form of social connection he hadn’t experienced before. Thomas Graham saw his potential and offered him paid, permanent work for 12 hours a week and he quickly accepted. David said: CASE STUDY More than work, this shows the social inclusion, the development of pride, skills and confidence and the independence that can be achieved when we help people and employers think differently about work. Apprenticeships with Cumberland Council Cumberland Council is aiming to redefine the pathway into local government careers through its dynamic apprenticeship programme. Launched earlier this year, the initiative offers a broad spectrum of roles across sectors including Social Care, Digital & ICT, Finance, Highways and beyond, providing real-world experience and educational advancement in one package. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, qualifications range from Level 2 to Master’s degrees, offering opportunities for school leavers and career changers alike. Laura Waraich of Cumberland Council, said: “One of the standout features of our apprenticeships is the emphasis on meaningful, hands-on work. Apprentices contribute directly to impactful projects that benefit the local community, giving them a sense of purpose and achievement from day one. The council’s experienced mentors provide continuous support, ensuring every apprentice gains valuable insights and industry-specific knowledge.” Beyond technical skills, apprentices are encouraged to build networks across departments, fostering collaboration and enhancing future employability. The structured guidance and mentorship aims to provide a launchpad for a fulfilling, stable career in public service. Laura Waraich added: To further support apprentices’ development, the council has launched NextGen Cumberland – a new networking group designed to help apprentices build their skills and involve them in the wider workstreams of the council. Recently, the group took part in a teambuilding course in the Lake District, providing a fun and challenging opportunity to grow confidence, strengthen bonds, and develop essential workplace skills outside the usual environment. Many graduates progress into permanent roles within the Council, reflecting the organisation’s investment in long-term career growth and community impact. In a time when job stability and meaningful work are more important than ever, Cumberland Council wants to stand out as a champion for emerging talent. The team takes groups from local organisations and businesses into the woods to embrace the outdoors and learn techniques to help them deal with stress in the workplace and at home, and improve resilience. CASE STUDY Recently, we held our first full practical assessment day for the Highways service – an exciting milestone that’s been met with great success. We’re also proud of our internal apprentices, and with September’s intake on the horizon, the momentum continues to grow. In total, we now support around 150 apprentices across schools, internal departments, and external placements – a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent across the region. Our learners tell us they want the same opportunities that others have, and we believe that equal employment is a powerful catalyst for change. Our primary outcome is long-term employment, pride, satisfaction and purpose. Carlisle: Opportunities & Challenges 2025 28 29
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