Jobseekers are set to benefit from expansions and extensions to two of Tararaua’s job programmes.
The programmes, run by Tararua District Council [TDC], help prepare people for work by preparing work experience or funding businesses to hire and train employees, often two of the most significant barriers to employment.
“There is nothing more rewarding than seeing our people gain employment and confidence,” Tararua mayor Tracey Collis said.
“Our two main workforce programmes are continuing to be successful and have both been extended for another year.”
The first programme was a work scheme called Project in the Community. Funded by the Ministry of Social Development [MSD], the work would allow fifteen unemployed people to help tidy up domains and reserves across the district.
TDC said it would be the fourth MSD project crew, with three crews having completed similar work over the past 12 months. They said the vast majority of those crews had been supported into permanent work, which was a goal of the project.
“We also have the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs workforce programme for our youth, which has had some impressive results,” Collis said.
“Since starting in mid-2020, the Mayors Taskforce has helped 170 young people into employment in our district, and this number is increasing steadily.”
Collis said 133 local companies had participated in the programme so far.
