David Schulz - Training Officer Clinical Biochemistry

Hi Gary, Just thought I would drop you a line to thank you and your staff for the great job you have done with the FJF project. The four people we have had during phase 1 and 2 have been a credit to your scheme. They have had a great experience here with us and have been an invaluable asset to us. So much so that three have already found work with us, the last one is awaiting an interview for a position here. It is such a shame the scheme is coming to an end, but if, in the future, another similar scheme is made available, please do not hesitate to give us a call, because we would, as a department, be only too pleased to participate. These sentiments have been expressed by all members of staff in the department, and we consider these people very much part of the team here in the biochemistry lab. Yours sincerely David Schulz Training Officer Clinical Biochemistry Peterborough and Stamford Hospitals NHS

Matthew Smith Neighbourhood Support Officer at Cambridgeshire Constabulary

Matthew Smith was unemployed for 5 months before gaining the opportunity to get back into work at Cambridgeshire Constabulary as a Neighbourhood Support Officer. Matthew started on the 20 December 2011.

“As a Neighbourhood Support Officer I am responsible for providing administrative services along with engaging and contributing to the community development. To update the police databases, compose spreadsheets, letters and emails. Link relevant departments, individuals and groups within neighbourhood teams using a joined up approach, to reduce anti-social behaviour, crime and the fear of crime and to improve the quality of life for residents and of the environment within our neighbourhoods.”

“The people who I work with in the within the police station, are great. They have helped me progress so much already and are always willing to give me advice and assistance in any way they could.”

“I would like to thank all of the Future Jobs Fund Team for this fantastic experience of a work placement and for all the help and advice they have offered me, also for the training you have given me in my placement so far.”

When asked about the Future Jobs Fund and its benefits. Matthew said “I would highly recommend this scheme. It gives you 6 months of much needed work experience, which gives you a great chance to improve your long term employment.”

Samantha Wright - Vivacity - Library Assistant

When I first started my job at the library I thought it would be quite boring and I would gain no new skills. But now I think it is a brilliant place to work. I learn something new everyday, work with great people and meet various, different customers which completes the package.

Working with young children is the best part of my job. Learning their different reactions to different stories and activities is always fun.

The only negative I have in regards to the Future Jobs Fund is that the job is only for six months.

Meet Lauren Cade

Dear Future Jobs Fund

As you are aware, I have been offered full-time permanent work. I am due to start with Farsight as a CCTV operator.

You will also know (from my FJF employee manger) that I truly believe in the Future Jobs Fund initiative and feel very lucky and grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of it. Working with the Wildlife Trust for 4 months has defiantly improved my confidence and has helped me to gain and develop transferable workplace skills. I have no doubt in my mind that this placement has untimely led to me gaining full-time employment with Farsight.

I have really enjoyed my time spent with the Wildlife Trust, they offered fantastic training opportunities and tailored my work plan to suit my skills and areas of interest; for example, working with the Community Payback. I most enjoyed my time spent there because of all the wonderful (and unique) staff from across the 4 Counties.

Thank you very much for all the opportunities.

Aung Thein was a Transitional Service desk Officer at the NHS

Aung Thein was a Transitional Service desk Officer at the NHS. Aung has successfully found employment for Web windows, where he will be working as apart of their media advertising team.

When asked whether the FJF scheme helped him in anyway to secure his new job, Aung said “The FJF gave me valuable paid work experience that has increased the desirability of my CV and increased my employability as well as providing many opportunities to help towards a full-time occupation.”

““The FJF scheme helped increase my employability as well as providing valuable guidance and opportunities to help towards a full-time occupation I wouldn't have had the experience to apply for. I have definitely improved my telephone manner and database skills whilst working for the NHS.”

“I would definitely recommend the FJF as it has helped me greatly and I’ve appreciated the opportunity so much, i have met so many great people through my work and the FJF team. The scheme has helped me to increase my employability and offer their guidance/experience.”