Pair getting their break at Gordons

Gordons, which is celebrating 30 years in business this year and has more than 40 outlets across Northern Ireland, was one of the first companies here to back the Steps to Work programme.

Funded by the Department for Employment and Learning and supported locally by Banbridge District Council and delivered by training organisation People 1st, the scheme aims to get unemployed people back into work. Now Jason Wilson and Clifford Quinn will be turning their 13-week placement into permanent jobs.

Neil Gordon, a partner in Gordons Chemists said: "Our stores are at the centre of the communities we serve and this was one community programme we were delighted to get involved with.

"It is just one of the ways we try to put something back into the community. However what made this project even more rewarding was the fact that these two young men were not only good enough to complete their 13-week programme; they are now permanent staff as a result of all the efforts they put in.

"The Steps To Work initiative is a very worthwhile and rewarding programme for both ourselves, as employers, as well as the participants.

"Of course, not everyone will be able to get a permanent role at the end of their placement but where opportunities do exist; we are only too delighted to be able to employ successful participants."

Jason and Clifford were more than delighted to be part of the team at Gordons in Banbridge.

Jason said: "Coming to Gordons Chemists through People 1st provided me with a fantastic opportunity to show an employer what I could do.

"I took my chance and worked hard knowing that it was difficult to get a job in the current economic climate. I was very grateful when I was awarded a full time job."

Clifford said: "I was given a great opportunity and it was worth the effort."

Janet Shaw from People 1st in Banbridge was also delighted with the job offers.

She said: "Jason and Clifford were participants on the 13 week work experience strand of the Steps to Work programme. Both participants demonstrated their potential whilst in placement at Gordon’s Chemists which allowed them to gain the experience they needed to progress into employment.

"The programme has also been supported by Banbridge District Council who recently helped raise awareness about the programme with local businesses. Gordon’s Chemists have been one of the first employers to fully support the scheme in the area and continue to do so by offering placements to those who need the work experience.

"The Steps to Work programme is a government funded scheme that can help unemployed adults find employment through training and work experience. The programme can also benefit employers by offering placements to Steps to Works clients." Janet is particularly keen to hear from any business who can offer a work placement opportunity.

If you think your business could benefit from the programme please contact Janet at People 1st on 4066 9855 or e-mail [email protected]