Claire Dixon of Byker, is celebrating her achievement after securing permanent employment at Posh Pups; a canine grooming service based in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, thanks to support from national disability charity Shaw Trust.
After a long period of unemployment, Claire's local Disability Employment Adviser, referred her to Eland Dunn of Shaw Trust for help in finding a work placement. That was in April of this year. During an initial meeting with Claire, Eland established that she had always been interested in working with animals. He then contacted Denise Hawdon, Owner of Posh Pups and arranged for her to meet Claire and a voluntary work placement as a Dog Grooming Assistant was set up.
Despite having no previous experience in this area of work, Claire's placement provided her the opportunity to prove her abilities to Denise who was so impressed, she offered her a permanent position working 20 hours per week.
Denise explains, "Claire settled in very quickly. Despite her disabilities she was keen to learn and likes keeping herself busy. She feels comfortable with her duties which include brushing, bathing and drying dogs and holding dogs for others. Claire also answers the telephone and helps with general housekeeping. She is always happy and puts in 100% commitment, so when a vacancy occurred I had no hesitation in offering her a permanent position".
Claire started her job at Posh Pups on 11th July 2003, she said, "Thanks to Shaw Trust I have landed my dream job. Without Eland's help initially and the continued support from Lynne Rogers I would still be unemployed, I just needed a little push".
Claire's placement was funded by the Work Preparation Programme; a Government initiative delivered by Shaw Trust throughout the UK. Here in the North East, Shaw Trust has supported over 350 people in the last year through this scheme, of those people over 60% have gone on to achieve a positive outcome with some, like Claire, obtaining permanent employment and others going into further training.
Lynne Rogers of Shaw Trust explains, "With its flexible approach, it can give people with disabilities or those disadvantaged through ill health the extra support needed to get into work. Placements can last anywhere between six and thirteen weeks on a voluntary basis which enables people to stay on existing benefits whilst trying out work". Lynne continues, "It allows you to try out work with local organisations or employers to see if the work suits your needs, travel costs and other expenses are refunded. Work Placements build confidence and let you try out what you'd like to do with no risk to benefits."
During the placement, a Shaw Trust Officer, like Lynne, produces a full report which helps develop a personal action plan. She also provides support, advice and guidance and helps with the next steps towards achieving work goals. If you would like more information about this and any other Shaw Trust service, contact Lynne Rogers on 01642 218181; or visit www.shaw-trust.org.uk
