Section 7 – Collaborative working: the benefits and challenges
Using information effectively In recognition of the importance of collaborative working in the process of developing the supported employment model, NIACE produced a set of basic awareness-raising information sheets for key partners who need to be involved in supporting people with learning difficulties make the transition from college to work. The Moving into Work pack48 is a useful resource to use with this book. It contains a set of six information sheets aimed at:
• people with learning difficulties; • employers; • parents and carers; • practitioners in the learning and skills sector; • managers in the learning and skills sector; and • information, advice and guidance services. The table below gives some examples of how organisations have used the Moving into Work pack to develop work with partners and colleagues.
Case study – Using information to raise awareness and engage partners People with learning difficulties • ‘We have used these in working with learners when talking about work and what it means.’ (Service Manager, Mencap) • ‘I am a team leader at a Day Centre where my team is involved with supporting people with learning difficulties to gain work experience and voluntary work placements. The pack will assist us in our support.’ • ‘I am organising a careers fair in November and I think they may be useful to parents and students.’ (College Inclusion team) Parents and carers • ‘We are attending a transitions event and this information would be really beneficial for the young people and their carers/parents.’ (Social Services Department, Employment Service Support Manager) Employers • ‘I am working with learners who are at entry level on a range of vocational programmes whom we expect to leave and progress to work over three years. Packs for parents and employers would certainly enhance what we already offer.’ (Senior Tutor, Learner Services, FE College) Practitioners in the FE sector • ‘…some packs for our student services and for a couple of tutors who are embarking on new employability courses.’ (Additional Support Co-ordinator, FE College)
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48 Moving into Work information sheets are available from the NIACE website: www.niace.org.uk/development-research/moving-into-work