September– October 2013
&& TIMES 5E LIFE LIFE TIMES Issue 2
A WHOLE NEW WORLD Inside this issue:
Our achievements in 2013 and plans for the months ahead 5E‘s story and more on…
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Dean Day, a WP client, gets a job in a supermarket Dean‘s story and more on…
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Ali Aden, an ESOL student, gets a job in a five star hotel Ali‘s story and more on…
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ESOL students explore the Museum of Natural History and the Science Museum at South Kensington, and Harrods Departmental Store at Knightsbridge, London during a class day trip as part of their learning experience on the ESOL course. More pictures... Page 19
Five(E) a day! With around 100 jobs every month, 5E puts an average of 5 clients into employment every day through its various project across its 7 centres in London.
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Time to celebrate success
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ts the time of the year to reflect on our achievements and highlight the growth potential. Every year in November-December, we at 5E, celebrate the achievements of our clients and honour them for their hard work and perseverance. We all know that the job market is still recovering and finding jobs has not been easy. But the constant struggle to look for job openings and training clients to suit the job profile has paid off. has been awarded the On an average we put Investors in People Gold 100 clients into jobs every Recognition for the second month; that‘s about 5 jobs a time. We achieved the IiP day! Its an accomplishment we Gold award in our last review are all proud of and shall enin 2010 and now we have deavour to surpass it in days ahead. retained it. We at 5E are gearing up to fit the new agenda set by the government to tackle unemployment and training. We are constantly adding new projects to our offerings and recently introduced the traineeship project for 16-23 year olds which we believe will expose them to the discipline of employment and offer an important threshold to enter the job market. We have also once again brought in the Skills Support for the Unemployed to give them the training and support required to enter the job market within a few weeks. Our Information Technology department is now offering several new and updated courses that are the industry requirement. We also offer 24+ loans for students to help them progress in their careers. These are challenging times, but with a qualified, experienced and extremely motivated team, I‘m sure we will meet the goals we have set out for ourselves and help our clients achieve theirs. I am pleased to inform that The Investors in People Review for 5E has just concluded and we have been awarded the Investors in People Gold Recognition for the second time. Well done to everyone.
5E
- Raj Doshi, Managing Director, 5E Ltd
FLYING HIGH
On top of the charts: In September, Maximus Team in Edmonton celebrated success at winning the ESA- PG6 competition for placing the most number of PG6 customers into jobs among all other work programme providers in London.
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5E BRINGS TWO NEW PROJECTS FOR MOTIVATED JOB SEEKERS An important project that 5E Ltd is offering clients recently is Traineeships, funded through the Skills Funding Agency. ―The programme is aimed at those aged 16 to 23 years, and will support a core group of young people to gain the skills and work experience that employers are looking for in order to be able to compete for Apprenticeships or other sustainable employment,‖ says Sarah Nicolaou, the project co-ordinator. Through the programme a trainee will gain meaningful work experience and develop workplace skills through a high quality work placement, and undertake the relevant sector specific qualifications and pre employment training to support them to develop the knowledge and skills required to enter an Apprenticeship or employment. ―There is also an opportunity for those who did not achieve their GCSE‘s in English and Maths to undertake functional skills while on programme,‖ adds another project co-ordinator, Sandeep Singh. Also in September, 5E Ltd re- introduced the Skills Support for the Unemployed project, also funded through the Skills Funding Agency. The programme is aimed at equipping those who are looking for work with the skills they need to enter the current labour market. ―Through the programme individuals have the opportunity to gain the relevant employability and sector specific skills they require to enter and sustain employment,‖ says Sarah.
Training sessions on SSU project involves team building activities like the one above
5E Bags IiP Gold Award... Once Again
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n October, 5E underwent an Investors in People audit. In the last review in 2010, 5E had achieved the IiP Gold award “You (Raj) have a (pic above) and this year it fantastic team of retained its title. 5E was reviewed on Business Strategy, Leadership and Management and Social Responsibility Strategy over and above the IiP Core Standards. Over 1000 employers nationally achieve additional recognition with only the top 1% companies being awarded the Gold.
people working with you and it was an absolute pleasure meeting with them”
- Valarie Walcott, IiP Assessor
Valerie Walcott, IIP Assessor, who interviewed 38 5E staff over four days from all of seven centres says, “I have found sufficient reliable and valid evidence that 5E continues to meet the Investors in People Standard at the Gold level. Congratulations to everyone at 5E. You (Raj) have a fantastic team of people working with you and it was an absolute pleasure meeting with them.” The IiP audit was a testimony to the work ethics and culture 5E imbibes which percolate down to all employees. Jennifer Vaz, HR Manager at 5E says, “We could not have done it without the support from each one of our employees.”
I would also like to much appreciate the fact that 5E Ltd is a hands on institute of training, whether it is PC Maintenance or Cisco Maintenance and the opportunities to would like to thank 5E Ltd and the teaching staff. My use the equipment is wide open. In tutor Ved for Microsoft MCITP training was really hands-on labs of Microsoft the training was on and helpful to all of us. He gave us a lot of confidence and physical servers. boosted out morale all through the course. He also had a clear Finally I would like to thank deliverance of the course. everybody in the extended family of
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Hands-On IT Institute
Later on I joined Cisco training and found very good knowledge able and experienced tutors like Raphael Mathew and Sohail Gohir – Cisco Certified trainers to help and guide me. The industry knowledge of the Cisco trainers was very helpful. They had collectively 30 years of Cisco Network experience between them. I also would like to thank Amit Desai for giving me the direction, pastoral support.
5E ltd who counselled me, helped me make a CV, guided me to jobsites, supported me for interviews, and focussed on career boosting opportunities. Finally I have got job offer and I’m starting work from December 2013. - Anthony Butler Microsoft MCITP 2008 SA/EN Cisco CCNA/ CCNP and City and Guilds Level 4 Diploma
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SANTA’S WORKSHOP ESA clients make Christmas cards to raise funds
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he ESA group sessions are held every Tuesday and Thursday morning at Watkins House. It was created in order to help ESA clients with work related activities. It also helps those who wish to go into self employment by giving them the information they need in order to start; such as benefit entitlements and how to pay Tax and National Insurance. For those clients who are not able to go into work it gives them the chance to meet new people and make friends. The sessions have been mainly about Enterprise and looking at different types of self employment. We have started with arts and craft sessions where we have been making Christmas cards which we hope to sell to the staff and the money will go back into the enterprise to buy resources for the next project. Denise Burke, an ESA client enjoys making all types of handmade cards and has been showing the other members of the group how to make Christmas cards using different techniques and everyone has been enjoying it. ―I enjoy card making, I find that being creative with card making allows me to de-stress. Despite every group members individual health issues they show great effort and potential. The group works together to encourage one another which is very motivating,‖ says Hatice Kulahlilar. Marie-Ellen Lecointe enjoys making the cards. ―I like the experience that I am gaining and it keeps me busy instead of not doing anything at home. I always look forward to going to the work programme twice a week to make the cards. I am sure I will continue to enjoy it until it is over‖. Peter Piper joined the arts and craft sessions a few weeks ago. ―I have enjoyed it very much. This helps people who are out of work and helps them get ready to go back to work. I enjoy the few hours I spend at 5E every week and I feel I am getting some satisfaction out of it. Vennette who runs the sessions really does make everyone feel comfortable and not pressured,‖ says Peter. The members of the group all get along well and have developed their own self help sub group where they can speak about their problems or issues if they feel comfortable to do so. This works because they have a good understanding of what each other is going through.
CHRISTMAS CARDS GALLERY
―Two clients have now become self employed after attending sessions and we wish them well. There is an open door policy and a warm welcome for those who wish to attend,‖ says Venette Geddes, the trainer.
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‘Fashionable’ career choice
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afisa Abdirahman, a single mother, was struggling to find work in UK until she was put on the Work Programme. Her last job was in Holland in 2004. Then she moved to UK and couldn‘t find a job. ―She wanted to work in fashion and had ’m grateful to Girish for some qualification in Holland. We tried to find her helping me discover my strengths a job in retail and it didn‘t work out,‖ says Girish and offering the support to start Luchmun, her adviser. One day while discussing her hobbies, Girish discovered that Nafisa enjoyed my business.” sewing and had some degree of confidence in the trade. Nafisa Abdirahman ―I discussed the various ways in which we could pursue this and we came up with the plan of Nafisa‘s doing work as a self employed person. She was excited and with our guidance and support, soon set up her self employment business,‖ says Girish. ―I‘m grateful to Girish for helping me discover my strengths and offering the support to start my business,‖ says Nafisa whose business is slowing expanding.
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Spindle and Thread: Girsh with Nafisa and her daughter
interview techniques. Soon Sebahat was successful in the interview ebahat Ozen, a housewife from Turkey, never worked in UK and got the job. For a single until she came on the Work Programme. However when she met mother who never worked in her adviser Girish, he soon realised her barrier was lack of English her life, this success changed language skills. He referred her to an ESOL class. her life. ―I‘m so happy I got a ―I started ESOL Entry 1 and found it very useful. I am now job and it would have never more confident with my speaking,‖ says Sebahat. been possible without Girish‘s Girish then helped Sebahat fill an application form for a help. Thank you so much,‖ cleaner with British Food Centre in Cheshunt and trained her on says Sebahat.
ANOTHER SINGLE MUM FINDS HER FIRST JOB
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Going on interviews gave me a confidence boost
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got him an opportunity where he had two days of work trial which gave the employer a chance to see his strengths, which helped him ean Day was on the work programme and his adviser was in moving into employment,‖ says Jenna. ―The employer told me Jenna Green. ―It has been pretty good. Jenna helped me get a lot of that Dean was a ‗surprise package‘. Initially they did not expect him interviews which has given me a real confidence boost. I‘d like to to be so good but his work thank Jenna for all the help and suptrial proved otherwise,‖ addport,‖ says Dean. ed Sandeep. e got Dean an opporenna helped me Jenna put Dean on employabilI would like to thank tunity where he had two days of get a lot of interviews ity course and also helped him get a Jenna and Sandeep in help- work trial which gave the employer which has given me a qualification in customer care. She then ing me get this job. I am now a chance to see his strengths, which helped him in moving into real confidence boost.” referred him to a vacancy at Aldi that working for Aldi as a store was sourced by Sandeep Singh of the assistant for 25 hours a employment.” business development team. week,‖ says a happy Dean. Dean Day ―Dean was going for lot of interJenna Green views but was not being successful. We
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FRAMING SUCCESS Billy Ashton Mathy Mwilambwe
Stephen Grachvogel
Paul Mcarthur Emma Gudgeon
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hank you Ibsa. You have been very supportive during my job search. I really feel I benefitted from the one-to-one session. The staff I have met at 5E have all been very friendly and although at first there was uncertainty about what the work programme was, I have enjoyed visiting and sharing my concerns and issues. This has helped me realise what my skills are and gave me the confidence to implement them. - Stephen Grachvogel Sales Assistant, Harrods
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y adviser Ibsa was approachable and polite and treated me with respect and gave me plenty of options. I enjoyed my time with Ibsa and felt motivated around him. I was upset when job centre sent me to 5E. Now I am thankful! Ibsa referred me to a mechanics role secured my Meral. Meral said she saw something special in me and chose me out of many for the role. I had always wanted to be a mechanic. Thank you Meral and Ibsa. - Billy Ashton Mechanic, Tsiti Mechanics
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I did not give up... And got a job
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aul Mcarthur has been on Employment Support Allowance for the past four years due to needing spinal surgery. The road to recovery has been a long one and at times, it would have been easy for Paul to give up. ―I‘m not a quitter though and spent a lot of time rebuilding my physical strength. I‘m now off ESA and have started a business repairing motorcycles. The business- like me– will get stronger over time. The future looks good,‖ says Paul. ―When I first spoke to Paul, he could barely move. His recovery has been remarkable. Each phone call session I had with Paul, he explained how he would fight his health issues and get back to work. He had a plan and achieved it,‖ says Ibsa, his adviser.
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- Mathy Mwilambwe Sales assistant, Lidl Supermarket
- Emma Gudgeon Kitchen Assistant, London Borough of Enfield Council Schools
bsa was very helpful and gave me constant guidance and support. It was easy to discuss my job goals with him and he helped me achieve them. I was getting troubled by being unemployed for so long and Ibsa constantly motivated me and did not let me lose hope. Ibsa helped me with the application form and prepared me for the interview and I got the job.
hank you Ibsa. I came on the Work Programme with no experience. I had no qualifications, so Ibsa put me in for a business & administration course which I completed. He then helped me fill out applications, did my CV and gave me interview techniques. I was very shy and timid and very nervous to go to meet employers, but Ibsa constantly motivated me. I now have a job. Thank you Ibsa.
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Working @ MATALAN
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achel Bennett started the Work Programme in July 2013. Her first job preference was retail but had no work experience. Soniya updated her CV, gave her a 1-1 interview mock session and put her on the customer service training to help her get a qualification in customer service. She was referred to the Iceland screening y adviser refor which she secured an interview but was unsuc- stored my confidence cessful. After this, she was and motivated me to go referred to Matalan where for an interview with she got a job. Matalan. The interview―I got a job with- er absolutely loved me in 3 months of being on the Work Programme. and said I was the best!” When I didn‘t make it to Iceland, I was very disapRachel Bennett pointed. But my adviser restored my confidence and motivated me to go for the next one at Matalan. The interviewer absolutely loved me and said I was the best!,‖ says Rachel crediting Soniya for her success. ―When I first met Rachel, I felt she lacked confidence and I would often spend more time with her building her confidence and preparing her for interviews as she did not have any experience with interviews,‖ says Soniya.
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Rachel Bennett ecstatic with her success at Matalan job interview
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ayden Jay is a young girl who was a little confused about her job goals when she started the work programme in July this year. So her adviser set a smart action plan, provided soft skills training and gave her coaching on job hunting online. ―My adviser set my action plan and I regained focus and aim. Definitely does help when you have someone to support you to find work, which is what 5E has done for me. I also picked up useful administration and ICT skills due to the courses enrolled by Soniya. Thanks 5E,‖ adds Hayden. Hayden was referred for a Blockbuster work trial which she failed to attend. But the adviser gave her another chance and set up a session on motivation and refreshed her on her goals. ―I felt Hayden needed a second chance, hence I liaised with the business development team intensely and put her for many interviews across various companies in retail and customer service to raise her confidence,‖ says Soniya. E has helped me to be ―I was looking for work for over a more focussed on my job year. 5E has helped me to be more focussed goals. I have been on Iceland on my job goals. I have been on Iceland interview, call centre work trial and Argos screening; interview, call centre work but I‘ve hit the jackpot now with Matalan,‖ says trial and Argos screening; but I’ve hit the jackpot now Hayden. Three months of hard work paid off with Matalan.” and Hayden secured a permanent position with Matalan.
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Hayden Jay
Hayden Jay holding on tight to her Matalan contract
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My career is on a drive
Two jobs in 8 weeks
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ilbert Watt was on the work programme. Gilbert is an energetic and enthusiastic man, having worked as a 7.5 tonne driver for over 10 years. He was out of work for over a year. ―I though my direction and motivation was revived. My adviser Soniya was extremely helpful and now after being on the work programme for 2 months, I have secured work as a driver,‖ says Gilbert. Soniya assisted Gilbert with tailoring his CV drastically, providing a cover letter session and doing 1-1 job search. ―After three months of supporting Gilbert, he finally got a job for 44 hours a week as a driver,‖ says Soniya.
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though my direction and motivation was revived. My adviser Soniya was extremely helpful and now after being on the work programme for 2 months, I have secured work as a driver.‖
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Hands full: Ngoie Mulungie estactic with her two jobs
goie Mulungie came to 5E on the work programme and worked with her adviser Soniya to find 16 hours of work a week so that she could sign off from the job centre. hen I first met ―I am very happy with my adviser Soniya. my adviser, she enhanced Thank you for getting me a first and a second job! my CV and called up comNow I can sign off from the job centre with my 16 panies for me to check for hours a week,‖ Ngoiesays happily. suitable vacancies and arNgoie is working as a cleaner for Ladbrokes in Enfield and also as a catering assistant in a ranged two interviews– school. ―When I first met my adviser, she enhanced one of which I did a work my CV and called up companies for me to check for trial and succeeded.” suitable vacancies and arranged two interviews– one of which I did a work trial and succeeded. The other was a screening with Ateqah referred by my adviser Ngoie Mulungie in which I was again successful,‖ Ngoie. ―Ngoie is a lovely and polite person. She is a lone person with language barriers and no previous working history in UK. She was due to end on her work programme in a couple of months and was very keen to find a job. I worked intensely with her from CV update to rehearsing for interviews. Well done Ngoie. This is an example of persistence that takes you far– We did it!‖
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artin Bloomfield came on the Work Programme looking for gardening work. He had done courses on Horticulture organics at Capel Manor College, Enfield in 2011 with some work experience in ground maintenance. ―He was trying hard to get back into it but was finding it difficult. Then we sent him to a garden centre in Enfield where they asked him to come for interview and he began working in the shop,‖ says Girish, his adviser. ―I enjoyed my work there but felt I could do more. I discussed this with Girish who agreed with me,‖ says Martin. Girish helped Martin with Health & Safety and First Aid certification and referred him to a self employment adviser. ―Due to his knowledge and skills, I was sure Martin would be successful as self employed. Many clients at the garden centre asked him to work for them.‖
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iftyYaa Ayih came to 5E looking to do more with her life. She had worked earlier as a cleaner but was looking to move to a different career. However she was unsuccessful since 2011. Her adviser Girish discovered her talent with hairdressing and suggested she work as a self employed hairdresser. Gifty loved the idea and soon started her own hairdressing business. ―Girish was very helpful. I couldn‘t have done this without him,‖ she says.
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SEPTEMBER: Got ME a job OCTOBER: Got MY CLIENT a job
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illicia Wint was a struggling university graduate desperate to secure employment. Dillicia volunteered to come on the Maximus Work programme and was referred by her JCP advisor. As a lone parent Dillicia was keen to give her child the best start in life and knew that is was only through sustainable employment that this could properly be achieved. ―Dillicia, from the very beginning had an ―I can do it attitude‖ following the 5E doctrine to a par. As her advisor I could see something special within her and invited her to take part in voluntary work with us!,‖ says Ibsa.
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rom September 2013 I was offered full time employment with 5E and I am super keen to make my mark supporting others who like me before are searching for work.”
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―5E gave me back my confidence. With the help of Ibsa I was able to secure a voluntary placement with the organization as an employment support. From September 2013 I was offered full time employment with the organization and I am super keen to make my mark ith Dillicia’s supporting others who like me before are searching for work,‖ says Dillicia adding, ―Thank help I now feel confident you 5E and thank you Ibsa for all your hard work in helping me move back into employment. I in myself to go forth and can do it- and so can you!‖ do my best in my new One of Dillicia‘s first clients was Ozgul Ucer, a young lady who had no work experijob. She will always ence in UK. Working on her barriers and finding her opportunities she could best fit in, Dillicia managed to help Ozgul find work in a fast food shop as a sales assistant. ―My adviser was listen and support me in really helpful. She understood my needs and what I was capable of doing. She was in contact any way she can.” with me whenever I needed her. She made me feel confident giving me motivation and advice. With her help I now feel confident in myself to go forth and do my best in my new job. I Ozgul Ucer know Dillicia will always listen and support me in any way she can,‖ says Ozgul. Dillicia Wint
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Career Cruising
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fter graduating from Kingston University with a BSc (Hons) in biomedical science, I was unemployed and on Job seekers allowance. Throughout my time of signing on, I had applied to several jobs and attended numerous interviews but was turned down from all employers due to lack of experience I had within my field. I was then referred to Work Programme with 5E Ltd by jobcentre. My advisor Kystal Madyara was very helpful, she gave me advice and help which I had not received before. She highlighted to me I should look elsewhere to gain experience within a differ-
ent field which can also help me for the future. My advisor then referred me to her manager Rakesh, who took me for a work placement for 2 weeks. My hard work and determination was noticed and I was taken on as a staff member, I am now being trained to be an Employment advisor at Selby Centre. I would like to thank Krystal and 5E for noticing my abilities and for believing in me. - Zeynep Catak
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y name is Jacqueline Edwards and I was a student of the Work Programme at 5E Ltd. My employment adviser Ann Carrington was very kind, warm, helpful and considerate. She also had encouraging words to say and always made time to listen to my complaints. I personally would like to thank Ann and her team for the support given in finding me a job. Words cannot express my gratitude. Special thanks to Angela, my trainer who assisted me with my CV. Once again, a big thank you to Ann and her team. - Jacqueline Edwards Home care worker with Flex Serve Ltd
have found the work programme to be very helpful. My adviser Tuncer Yucekal gave me advice and support and pushed me in the right direction to find more hours and sign off from job seekers allowance. I always found 5E very attentive to my needs and my adviser all willing to listen and support me. He gave me valuable advice that helped me find work. Thank you Tuncer for making this possible. I could have never done it without you. - Gligeria Phillipou Playgroup Leader, London Borough of Enfield Schools
ack in March 2013, I began my Work Programme at 5E Ltd. Didn‘t really think much would come of it. Then I was introduced to my adviser Ann Carrington, who is such a lovely person who gave me encouragement and advice and most of all believed in me. I attended some of the training courses that were available and I found them to be very helpful in getting a job. I would highly recommend doing the Work Programme because it equips you to be able to apply for employment and gives you confidence to keep pursuing towards your goals. - Michelle Williams Volunteer/Co- Coordinator at Bubic Charity
hank you Girish for all your assistance during my time with 5E, from our first point of contact I knew very well that I was at the right place with the right people. The services that 5E provided was catered to my requirements, which also included my still active self employment business advisor, Tom. Once again I would like to thank Girish, Tom and the 5E programme, for their endeavours which was and still is very much appreciated. - Tuncel (Tony) Eshmene Self-employed, Business Sales Development—Flooring
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At 5E: My confidence soared
I got inspired by my adviser
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am a single parent. When I We did it!: Dawn Thompson came on the Work Programme, I lacked confiwith her advisers Maureen and Akshay dence and was struggling to even carry out job search. I did not have a proper CV and lacked interview skills. I was helped by Maureen to do my job search effectively and also received regular mentoring and motivation from her. But in the last few months, I completed a retail workshop and worked on my employability skills. I have secured a job with Chartwells as a Retail Assistant. I am very excited and happy to get into full time employment and am very confident to excel. I am also looking forward to update myself further to gain qualifications in IT. Thank you Maureen, Akshay and 5E Ltd. - Dawn Thompson
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y adviser Maria— Wow! What an inspiring woman! At first I thought she was Inspired: Cezzareina (right) with her going to be a problem and we adviser Maria would not get on. Yes, she pushed me but made me believe in myself again. I became confident and looked forward to attending my courses and training and she also encouraged me to go self employed. Thank you Maria, you are a star and a wonderful woman. I appreciate all the help and support throughout my short stay on the programme. Thank you for being there.
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Cezzareina Lewis, Self-employed domestic cleaner
Work Programme Successes All these clients received extensive job search help and employability skills training by their adviser Ann Carrington.
Mohamed Ali Abdulla found work as a sales assistant at Home Bargains
Azeb Kidane is working as a cleaner at Salama Community Association Avonelle Ivena Mckella is now a self employed hairdresser
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I became a sole trader
I broke free of benefits
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hen I first joined Maximus, I was very nervous and didn‘t know what to expect. After being a full-time mother, I felt as if I never had the skills and knowledge to be able to get a job. After meeting my job adviser Beks, I felt at ease and he offered my different courses which would improve my skills that I was lacking. When I was put on an IT course, which I found difficult at first as I suffer with anxiety. There were so many times where I felt, I wanted to give up, but Beks always encouraged me to carry one which helped me to pass ECDL Level 1 & 2. I then went on to a business and administration course. After applying for many different jobs and not being successful, I then spoke to my adviser. Beks informed me about going self employed and then put me in touch with Tom a specialist adviser on self employment. I am now a sole trader running my own market stall.
- Zina Morley Self-employed Market Trader
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had been claiming benefits for about 10 years before I became self employed. My Work Programme adviser Beks encouraged me to attend more in depth IT courses which led me to gaining nationally recognised qualifications. The courses provided by 5E gave me enough knowledge and confidence to become self employed in Sept 2013. In particular Beks gets most of the credit for my break from benefits.
- Colin Thompson Self-employed, IT technician & Web developer
Teamwork: Zina (left) with her adviser Beks (right)
Found my break into employment
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aving completed one of the retails courses made available to me through 5E—Work Programme, I was able to secure a job at Argos. Although temporary it was a vital part to a successful career. Without the support of Emma, my adviser, I wouldn‘t have had the opportunity and confidence to get this position. - Jordon Chambers Sales Assistant, Argos
I got a new direction with the Work Programme
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hen I was referred to the Work Programme, I had been unemployed and signing on for JSA for over a year. By this ithin a few time I was exasperated by my lack of suc- sessions, I had changed my CV cess in finding employment. and got more direction in my I was sceptical of what I could job search.‖ gain from the work programme but it proved me wrong. My adviser Beks is very experienced with plenty of practise in identifying why applications are unsuccessful. Erol Mahmout Within a few sessions, I had changed my CV and got more direction in my job search. The staff at 5E, Beks in particular put me for plenty of screenings that they thought suited me. It is through that I received a job offer. So thank you for a fresh start to Beks and the rest of the 5E team.
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- Erol Mahmout Admin Assistant for Neo Brothers (Car parts company)
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Work & Study? Yes, we can! Funding from the London Council helped several employed residents of Enfield gain a basic skills qualification by using flexible learning hours including evenings and weekends to update their ESOL and IT Skills.
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gained a lot from my ESOL Entry 1 class at 5E Ltd. When I started here I did not know how to speak English but we practised a lot in class talking about simple things – like our lives, weather and any important news. It helped me gain confidence to speak and my tutor Utpal was very good. He helped me learn and improve my pronunciation and always encouraged me to try and speak more. Today I am more confident and I have passed my speaking & listening exam. Thank you Utpal and 5E.
used computers at libraries and at my friend‘s house to apply for jobs and write emails to friends and family. I never learnt computers before and wanted to improve my skills. I found this course very useful. I now know a lot about computers, its different parts and functions. I initially found it difficult as my reading is weak, but my tutor Hiten explained everything to me and showed me how to do things which helped me greatly. I am now more confident with computers and would like to progress to the next level. -
Bahtisen Gunes
- Wilson Garcia Botello
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came from Poland to UK on 8 January 2013. I found work at Grange Hotel as a housekeeper next day. But I never got a chance to learn English and I could barely speak a word. So in May I joined 5E‘s evening classes to learn English. In September I finished my ESOL Entry 1 speaking in listening exam. These few months were the best of my life as I learnt how to communicate in English. My colleagues don‘t speak Polish and I have to speak to them in English only. They say that now my English has become much better and we can understand each other very well. - Halina Piotrowska
Some more students with 5E’s Marketing officer Monika
Its all about being co-operative
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y time with 5E ltd has been good. With help from my adviser Emma and tutors in employability course and retail course, I have gained employment, but also grown as a person. The company made me grow in confidence and apply myself in greater ways.‖
ince my time at 5E Ltd, I did my employability course with guidance from my adviser Emma. She also put me on the forklift course and I was given the opportunity to go on different screenings which helped me. Always listen and trust your advisers. Brian Murrell Sales Assistant, Co-op Brian (left) and Christopher (right) with their adviser Emma
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Christopher O‘Todle Sales Assistant, Co-op
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Opened my business
Gaining confidence bit by bit
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came to London with my family in 2011. I came to 5E to improve my English and started in Entry 2 then moved to Entry 3 within 3 months. Recently I started his own business ‗Arman Electronics‘. At 5E, all the staff members are very supportive, Amar helped me with my CV, Mrugesh gave me good career advice and my teacher Pamela was very supportive as she put me forth for many interviews at different companies which give me confidence and she also encouraged me to do my own business. Even after starting my business Pamela is still encouraging me to study and enrol onto a PC Maintenance Ubaid (right) with his tutor Pamela course. I‘m very happy with my business and its working fantastically.
- Ubaid Ullah
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Confidence boost: Sheridon with his adviser Rahme
hen I first came to 5E. I was very shy. But I overcame that a bit with the help of my adviser and the traineeship tutors. My confidence is very low but they are helping me with that. I have met some friendly people for the time that I have been here. Really appreciate the help of my adviser Rahme and Sandeep. Angela was also a very good teacher and I know they are going to do the best they can to find a job. So thank you so much.
Found my dream job
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- Sheridon Brown
was unemployed for a year and a half. I wanted to improve my chances of getting Carol (left) with her tutor Gillian employment by obtaining new skills at 5E. When I started at 5E I was at a low point in my life, I felt worthless and unemployable, and with each job application that was rejected or not replied to, made me more and more down. At 5E not only did I gain qualifications (ECDL Level 2) but through Gillian Green, my tutor, I grew in confidence improving my communication skills and with Gillian‘s advice, support and guidance I was able to improve my chances by producing a more professional CV and applying for a wider range of jobs and I have finally secured an Assistant Managers position with Marie Curie Cancer Charity, my dream job. A big thank you to Gillian and all her colleagues at 5E for their help. —Carol O‘Mahony
I was treated like a person and not just a number
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have recently become a self employed beautician. I came in with quite a low self esteem and felt that I was treated like a person and not just a number. I have always been motivated by my namesake adviser Sarah Khan. I felt she has always answered my questions straight away and has really helped to broaden my horizons. 5E and Sarah have always treated me with respect and dignity and have always been courteous. I did a retail course which gave me further tools to enhance myself. All in all, I have the confidence to begin my own business and I could not have achieved this without the help and support from my adviser and 5E Ltd. - Sarah Ali Khan Self–employed beautician
Sarah (left) with her namesake adviser Sarah (right)
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5 E L I F E & TI MES
5E helps a non-speaker of English find a job in a 5 star hotel
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li Aden’s English language skills were extremely limited when he was first referred to 5E as part of the Work Programme. His adviser Ibsa McCartan-Demie quickly enrolled him on an ESOL pre-entry class with the aim of developing his English skills to a level suitable for everyday communication. ―During my sessions with Ali, I have noticed that his English has steadily improved, an achievement that both he and I are extremely happy about,‖ says Ibsa. ―Ali was a dedicated student who always tried to learn new words and use them. He was successful in his pre-entry exams,‖ says Julie, his tutor. ―He is also very well mannered and friendly and I wish him the best for his future.‖ he Ali was insistent that he hotel manager told wanted to get into work soon. me that Ali’s hardWith little work experience and working and friendly personality is poor English communication an asset to her team,” skills, a role within the hospitality industry as a house keeper would be an easy route to follow, Mission Pre-entry accomplished: Ali & his tutor Julie suggested his adviser. At first Ali Ibsa McCartan –Demie was unsure about cleaning as a career. But after a discussion he was able to see the positive aspects of the job type. am very happy with ―I was able to secure a link with a well-known five star Wesley hotel based in central London who was keen to partner with 5E to take on our clients,‖ says Ibsa. 5E. I can speak some English now The manager Gladys Osei told Ibsa that she is really pleased with Ali and that his and I have a job. Thank you.” hardworking and friendly personality is an asset to her team. Ali was able to secure a permanent role within the hotel after successfully completing a five day work trial.
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Ali Aden
I found work as a shop assistant
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y tutor helped asan Coskun came to 5E ESOL Entry 1 in August. He was work- me with not just English ing as a baker for 10 years but lost his but also motivated me to job when the bakery closed. He was find a job.” unemployed for a couple of years before he came to ESOL class. Hasan Coskun ―Hasan was eager to find work but lacked confidence. In class, we did a lot of speaking and listening activities which helped him gain his confidence back. He also got job search support and we created his first ever CV and showed him how to approach employers,‖ says Shraddha Vaidya, his tutor. Hasan soon found work as a shop assistant in an off licence shop in Enfield. ―I am very happy to get a job. My tutor helped me with not just English but also motivated me to find a job,‖ says a happy Hasan Coskun. Hasan with Shraddha celebrating his job success
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5E LIFE & TIMES
ESOL opened a NEW world for me
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bigniew Michal Borowski came to 5E Ltd in July on an ESOL Entry 2 course. He had never been to school in UK and had done technical secondary school in Poland. He came to UK in May 2009. He worked as a self employed painter/decorator in UK from 2009 until December 2012. ―I knew I had to learn English to have a better chance of finding work and I want to be able to speak English with my client and have a better communication,‖ says Michal. ―Michal is am very hapvery keen to learn py with my and has progressed very quickly. He ESOL course. I have Michal enjoying an class trip to the Science Museum takes additional improved my English a homework to lot. And my tutor also improve his grammar. He also came to me for help regarding CSCS helped me to apply for a card and I referred him to a provider,‖ says Ruhi Khan, his tutor. CSCS card. I now have Michal did one week intensive course and his exams in confidence to re-start my October and is awaiting his card . After which, Michal will be better work. This course equipped to restart his employment. opened a new world for ―I am very happy with my ESOL course. I have improved my me.” English a lot. And my tutor also helped me to apply for a CSCS card. I now have confidence to re-start my work. This course opened a Z Michal Bowoski new world for me,‖ says Michal.
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ESOL HELPED ME FIND MY FIRST JOB
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uciano Karikari, 19, came from Italy this year. He went to high school in Italy but never worked. His moved to UK, made him realise that his English language skills were a big drawback. So he joined the 5E ESOL class in July. ―ESOL class and my tutor Ruhi helped me improve my English skills especially the articulation of words which was my biggest difficulty. She also helped me learn how to take part in a formal discusy tutor sion which encouraged me to approach helped me improve my employers,‖ says Luciano. articulation of English Through word of mouth, Luciano words which was my found a vacancy of a cleaner in a luxury biggest difficulty. She also hotel in central London and applied for the helped me learn how to position. ―My employability tutor Alan take part in a formal discus- prepared my CV and Ruhi did a mock intersion which encouraged me view with me,‖ says Luciano who was successful at the interview and is now working as a to approach employers.” full-time night cleaner at Rosewood Hotel in Holborn. ―Luciano is young with plenty of enthusiasm with little direction. We helped him channel his energy in the right direction and he found himself a job. He offered him flexiLuciano Karikari ble learning hours and he even finished his ESOL Entry 2 qualification,‖ says Ruhi.
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5 E L I F E & TI MES
Building confidence… Finding jobs
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gidijus Pakarklis was very quiet and did not know what to say and how to speak. He joined ESOL entry 1 class. My teacher, Sumaiya has always encouraged me to speak and share my ideas and opinions on various topics with my classmates. “I have always been actively looking for work as a picker-packer, handy-man, decorahen I went to tor and a labourer. I also received help to make interviews, I realised that CV and apply for jobs. I started to get more inmy confidence has develterviews once I completed the ESOL Entry 1 oped and my communicaqualification. When I went to interviews, I realtion skills have improved ised that my confidence has developed and my a lot.” communication skills have improved a lot,” says Egidijus who soon got a job as a handyman. Egidijus Pakarklis While attending the classes at 5E, he says he enjoyed the opportunities to communicate with other students in class and the regular feedback he received from his tutor helped him improve his skills. “I have learnt a lot of new words in the class, practice the spelling and started to make sentences while writing,” he proudly adds.
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Confidence building: Egidijus credits his tutor for his success
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natolijus Nalivaiko, started attending ESOL Entry 1 classes in June 2013. Before he joined the classes, he could not write much and always used to avoid writing. While attending the classes, he learnt grammar, how to make sentences, how to spell and pronounce words. ―This course has helped me a lot to gain confidence and develop my skills. I was also given opportunities to talk to my classmates, share opinions and idewas also given opportunias which helped me to overcome my shyness,‖ ties to talk to my classmates, share says Anatolijus. opinions and ideas which helped ―At 5E, I always had a good time and I me to overcome my shyness.” have learnt a lot from my teacher, Sumaiya. She has helped me a lot starting from writing a sentence to communicating more effectively Anatolijus Nalivasiko and I always had very good lessons,‖ he adds. Anatolijus completed ESOL Entry 1 qualification. He also received support to look for work every week which made him more motivated to look for work. ―I am very happy to complete the ESOL Entry 1 qualification and to get a job as a ESOL hoisted my career: Anatolijus Nalivasiko Hoist driver in King‘s Cross, London. Everyone has always been very friendly and helpful. I really appreciate the help and support from 5E and I would like to recommend the college to others who want to improve their English in order to get a job,‖ he says.
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WEAR IT PINK SUPPORT BREAST CANCER RESEARCH
Staff & Clients at 5E centres across London wore pink and raised funds for Breast Cancer. Ilford Centre , however took a lead by setting up food stalls to raise money. Ilford centre raised £186.50, Watkins House—£86.30, Selby Centre & Stratford- £75, Merit House-£65, Edmonton Green—£10. Well done Team Ilford! Head office contribution of £78.50 brought the total to £501. Well done Team Ilford!
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5 E L I F E & TI M ES
ESOL class day trip to Museum of Natural History, Science Museum & Harrods Pictures by Diana Costa
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saw the museums for the first time and found it very interesting. There were a lot of things about our body, animals, space that I had no idea about. It helped me learn so much more. Sukru Kayamali
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e did a lesson on shopping that week, and our visit to Harrods helped us understand what a departmental store is. Harrods is so beautiful and everything is a treat to see. We found it amazing.‖ Zohre Paker (left) & Vasiliki Spano
he museum of Natural History is amazing. Such beautiful creatures to see. I truly enjoyed seeing the stuffed animals. They seemed so real.‖ Fowzia Mohammed
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he dinosaur exhibition was exciting. I enjoyed seeing the different types of dinosaurs and reading up on their history. The trip was such a good learning experience.‖ Natalia Kallas
5E LIFE & TIMES
KEEPING UP OUR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Congratulations Team Ilford! Forest House, Ilford- £155.27, Watkins House, Edmonton -£86, Selby Centre, Tottenham-£108.81, Merit House, Colindale-£72.72, Cypress House, Wood Green-£10, Head Office-£54.75. Total= £501 5 E L I FE & T I M E S
Action is the foundational key to all success. Pablo Picasso
Creating a brighter future through training & learning
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