8 July 2008
Test the Region
An exciting new partnership approach, in line with the principles of the Regional Employability Framework, between A4e and Acumen Development Trust has been formed to deliver ‘Test the Region’ a project that will engage 2500 unemployed people across the North East into skills for life learning.
Funded by the Learning and Skills Council and the European Social Fund, the project will see a team of Community Engagement Champions linking in with community groups, events, etc, across the region to provide the opportunity of one-to-one support to individuals helping them to undertake basic skills initial assessment. The champions will then offer detailed feedback on results and advice on locally available provision to address learning needs.
Elaine Robinson of Acumen Development Trust said: “The project will link innovative recruitment processes to mainstream skills for life provision. With its main focus on community engagement, individuals will have the opportunity of more intensive support. Individuals will also have access on a one-to-one basis to a skills for life tutor, if required.”
Acumen was chosen to help deliver this project as they already have a successful community engagement team. Elaine added: “We are really excited about this partnership and our experience of using innovative techniques to engage with unemployed people in their communities, will stand us in good stead for this project.”
Michelle Bellamy Contracts and Liaison Manager for A4e said: “A4e are delighted to be leading Test the Region. This project represents an innovative partnership between the private and voluntary sectors, bringing together best practice to benefit thousands of unemployed people across the North East.”
For more information about Test the Region contact Lee Beresford Project Manager from A4e on 01642 754 792.
