Stepping Stones Leeds

Written by Emma Ruane

Tenant Neighbourhood & Involvement Officer

21 Oct 2009 - Are you finding it hard to get back into work? Try our new project for jobs advice and free training. You don't have to be a Unity tenant to join in.

What is ‘Stepping Stones'?

Over the next year, we're offering a range of ‘first steps' advice and training to local residents who live in certain areas of Leeds where the community housing associations Unity, Connect and Leeds Federated work.

Why should I get in touch?

Because it's flexible, local and free. We might not be offering something that you want right now, but come and see one of our advisors. If you or your neighbours need something in particular, we'll do our best to put it on.

And once you've taken part in some introductory training, we'll plan your next move on with you - more advanced training, getting a qualification or finding a work placement… at a pace that suits you.

Can anybody take part?

You don't have to be a housing association tenant to get help from Stepping Stones - we will help anyone, as long as they: * are 19 or over; * live in an area that we are funded to work in (we'll tell you when you get in touch); * are out of work; and * are not already getting help under ‘New Deal'.

What if you can't help me?

It's still worth getting in touch. If we can, we'll refer you on to our partners at Working Links, who can give you one-to-one support. One of their advisors will be in touch with you within a week to see how they can help.

Where do I start?

Talk to any member of staff from Unity, Connect or Leeds Federated housing associations - they'll be able to refer you on.

saeeda@trescomresearch.co.uk