Employment assistance scheme is a resounding success

Chances, a project designed to help people overcome barriers into work, has supported 1,700 participants since it began in 2021, exceeding its original target of 1,686.

The Chances project was managed by Norfolk County Council and co-funded by the European Social Fund. The project was delivered by local partners: Voluntary Norfolk, Norfolk Citizens Advice, Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford and District, and Future Projects.

During the course of the project, Chances has seen 307 participants go on to education or training, 519 into paid work or setting up their own business and 156 people, who were not working when they joined the scheme, are now actively seeking work.

Cllr Fabian Eagle, Norfolk County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, said: "Since this project was launched in 2021, we've seen it go from strength to strength, achieving 4 of its 7 targets six months early. As the project comes to an end later this month, it's fantastic to tick off another target.

"Norfolk County Council is committed to supporting people into work. The Chances project aimed to help those struggling to overcome any challenges that might prevent them from finding a job. That could be anything from lack of confidence or health issues to mobility, childcare or transport. Participants got 1:1 support based on their specific needs - prepping for a job interview, finding training opportunities, improving their health, getting to work and finding childcare."

Viji's story

Viji heard about Chances at Gorleston library. She went along to one of the weekly sessions and met Bernadette, one of the Chances advocates.

"After I'd met and chatted with Bernadette, I felt she would be able to help me find a suitable job. She invited me along to the Chances office where we evaluated my strengths and weaknesses." 

Because Viji struggles with speaking English, Bernadette recommended she did some volunteer work with English-speaking people at the charity, Vision Norfolk. "After I joined Vision Norfolk, I could speak English much better than before." 

Viji also took part in a fun event organised by the Chances project. "This helped me when I was feeling depressed because I was unemployed."

With support from Chances, Viji has found a job in a care home. "This suits me well as I want to continue in my profession as a nurse." 

The Chances project closes on 30 September 2023 and is no longer able to accept referrals.