Tag Archives: conwy employment hub

News

Inspirational Jess refuses to let multiple disabilities get in way of caring for people and pets

AN INSPIRATIONAL young woman refused to let multiple disabilities stop her from caring for both humans and animals in two important new placements.

Despite being both partially blind and deaf since birth, dyslexic and suffering with Labyrinthitis and chronic migraines throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Jess Watson continues to put others ahead of herself.

The 26 year-old travels weekly by bus with assistance dog Jingle to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan, where she spends time with patients on the stroke ward, playing games, listening and talking to them in her role as a support worker.

Jess, who grew up in Stoke, also gives her time as a volunteer at PetPlace’s Abergele dog play park.

After moving to Llandudno, where the family own St Hilary Guest House on the town’s promenade, she was put in touch with Conwy Employment Hub, who pointed her toward the Engage to Change, DFN Project Search one-year internship programme, encouraging people with a learning disability to gain vital skills and experience with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

After six months of training at Rhyl’s ASK Centre, Jess is now enjoying her time at the hospital, and said: “I think given my disabilities a career in the NHS was something I never considered, I thought there would be too many barriers.

“But this programme has shown me there is a role for me, and it’s something I find really rewarding, being there emotionally for people who have had a stroke and are on the road to recovery. To be able to help them in some small way makes me happy.”

She added: “I am driven to help others, that’s what I want to do with my life and that includes animals, which is why I’m volunteering some time with PetPlace, who have also been very supportive.

“I am partially blind, partially deaf and face other challenges, but nothing can stop me from doing what I want to do, I won’t let it.”

Mentor Susan Tracey said the interview for the internship proved that.

“There were only eight people selected so Jess has done incredibly well and proven that having a disability is no barrier to success,” she said.

“When the interviews took place, she was on holiday in Cornwall, so it all had to take place online; despite this she did brilliantly and impressed with her positivity and empathetic nature.

“That’s what the Employment Hub is all about, breaking down walls to jobs and education, and Jess has shown how much she has to offer.”

Jess added: “Whatever my future brings, whether it’s people or animals I want to be able to support and care for them, that’s so important to me.

“I am lucky to have had a lot of backing from my family, Conwy Employment Hub, the health board and others, which has given me the confidence to look ahead and explore the opportunities out there.

“There are platforms and programmes that can help you achieve your dreams – you just have to go for it.”

For more information, email ceh@conwy.gov.uk or call 01492 576280.

Visit Conwy Employment Hub – More information – Conwy County Borough Council for more on Conwy Employment Hub.

News

70+ employers lined up for first ever Conwy Job Expo

LEADING employers will unite under one roof to showcase hundreds of job opportunities available in the Conwy region.

Creating Enterprise, Llandudno Pier, Castell Ventures, Whitbread, North Wales Police, Cleaner Care, Alpine Travel, Qioptiq, Abacare, St David’s Hospice, Deganwy Quay Hotel, Supertemps, Kiddies Corner Nursery and North Wales Housing are among more than 70 organisations from a wide range of sectors that will attend the inaugural Conwy Job Expo.

The free event has been organised by Conwy Employment Hub – which oversees Communities for Work, PaCE and Communities for Work Plus – in partnership with Working Wales, which is delivered by Careers Wales, the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and Conwy Business Support team.

It will be held from 2pm to 7pm on Thursday (May 12) at Eirias Events Centre in Colwyn Bay.

The Army will also be there on the day, and Regional Operations Manager Helen Muldowney, believes this is the perfect platform to share advice and guidance on current and future positions.

She added: “The British Army has such a wide range of roles and opportunities available for everyone.

“As one of the most respected organisations in the world, a career in the Army will see you go far, and we will champion and support you to achieve further professional qualifications whilst in your role.”

Qioptiq Learning and Development Manager Lucy Rimmer said the company, which has sites in St Asaph and Bodelwyddan, also has a wide range of vacancies for skilled and semi-skilled workers.

“This is a pivotal time for the business, and we are recruiting in several areas including manufacturing, engineering and programme management,” said Lucy.

“We are looking forward to the Expo and to discussing the dozens of positions we have available right here in North Wales.”

Chris Owens (pictured), Managing Director of Llandudno-based Alpine Travel, added: “We are delighted to be supporting the Conwy Job Expo, which is an excellent opportunity to meet and chat to potential new employees.

“We are always looking for the right people to join our team, and this is a great way to showcase what we do and why working for Alpine Travel is so rewarding.”

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service, is delighted to see such a vast number of organisations sign up for the exhibition and hopes to see lots of people there on the day.

“This is a chance for employers to showcase their offering and find candidates who can help them build back from the pandemic,” she said.

“For anyone looking for a new start or a change career, or even those just wanting to explore what jobs and academic avenues are out there, this is the place to be.”

The Eirias facility will be divided into sections for exhibitors, education and training, demonstrations, and workshops, covering themes from interview techniques to CV writing.

For more information, email ceh@conwy.gov.uk or call 01492 576280.

Visit Conwy Employment Hub – More information – Conwy County Borough Council for more on Conwy Employment Hub.

News

Industries will unite to showcase job opportunities at inaugural employment Expo

BUSINESSES, educators and training organisations can sign up to a free exhibition at one of the country’s premier event venues.

Eirias Events Centre in Colwyn Bay will host the inaugural Conwy Job Expo on Thursday May 12 from 2pm-7pm.

Organised by Conwy Employment Hub – which oversees Communities for Work, PaCE and Communities for Work Plus – in partnership with Working Wales, which is delivered by Careers Wales, the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and Conwy Business Support team, the Expo aims to bring multiple sectors under one roof to promote recruitment opportunities across the region.

Prospective job candidates, learners and apprentices will have the opportunity to meet with dozens of employers from a wide range of industries and take the next step towards their future careers.

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service, said they have already received a positive response and hope to see a great turnout on the day.

“This is a chance to shine a light on the many jobs which are currently being advertised in Conwy and the surrounding area,” she added.

“Recruitment is a major issue nationwide – particularly in hospitality, tourism, and IT – so we want employers to use this event to showcase their offering and find candidates who can help them build back from the pandemic.

“For those wanting to explore a new direction or professional and personal development there will be colleges, business support teams and training providers on-site to discuss your options, share information and provide guidance.

“If you are looking for a job, recruiting to your organisation or welcoming prospective learners for the next academic year, this is going to be a crucial event, a one-stop shop for employability and education – we hope to see you there.”

The Eirias facility will be divided into sections for exhibitors, education and training, demonstrations, and workshops, covering themes from interview techniques to CV writing.

Emma Lloyd-Edwards, Operational Development Manager for Conwy at Careers Wales, said: “The Expo is an excellent opportunity for anyone just starting their career journey, looking for work or who wants a change of direction. It’s also great for local employers to promote their sector and any live vacancies they have.

“This will be an ideal chance to network and connect with prospective employers and be informed of alternative career routes that may not have otherwise been considered.”

Sam Chadburn, DWP Employer Partnership Manager for Conwy, added: “We are looking forward to the event and bringing these key organisations together to help boost the local economy and develop career opportunities for those wanting a fresh start.”

Leila Cravetto, Business Engagement Officer with Conwy’s Business Support Team, echoed those points and believes the Expo is perfectly timed in light of challenges faced during the pandemic.

“We believe this is a great opportunity for many of our businesses to engage with people looking for employment or those wanting a career change,” she said.

“The event will not only promote the opportunities currently on offer but will highlight the careers that the key sectors can provide.”

Businesses looking to register for a free place can email business@conwy.gov.uk.

For more information, email ceh@conwy.gov.uk or call 01492 576280.

Visit Conwy Employment Hub – More information – Conwy County Borough Council for more on Conwy Employment Hub.

News

Construction course building new careers in Wales

A CONSTRUCTION course is building new careers to help meet demand in the sector.

Conwy Employment Hub – which oversees Communities for Work, PaCE and Communities for Work Plus – has been delivering jobs and skills opportunities in partnership with social housing enterprise Procure Plus and Mochdre-based RELM Construction.

Among those to have benefited is Tom Whitworth, who secured a role with RELM Construction after impressing on a placement as part of a two-week practical and classroom-based course which covered themes such as manual handling, environmental awareness, health and safety, how to use power tools and equipment safely, and working at height.

Tom, from Llandudno, said: “I had previously worked in catering but wanted to try a new career and discovered this course with Conwy Employment Hub.

“I was looking for help and I found it with them after coming across so many obstacles; they were really helpful and pointed me in the direction of the construction course, which was fantastic.”

The 30 year-old added: “I would advise anyone in the Conwy area to get in touch with the Employment Hub because they help get rid of barriers to work and are always on hand with support and advice.

“For my placement to turn into a full-time job with RELM Construction is brilliant, and I am enjoying the day-to-day experience, learning new skills all the time and looking forward to the future.”

The company, which specialises in the planned and reactive maintenance sector, as well as catering for commercial refurbishment schemes, praised Tom for his “positive attitude” and “eagerness to learn”.

Kate Parker, Senior Regeneration Manager at Procure Plus, added: “We’re thrilled our partnership with Conwy Employment Hub has helped people like Tom secure good quality sustainable jobs with great local construction employers like RELM.

“We have similar partnerships across the whole of North Wales, working with a variety of community groups and employers.

“As Tom has discovered, construction is a great industry and there are plenty of opportunities in a variety of trades and settings.

“Procure Plus’s work across North Wales provides people with the free training, skills and placements needed to be able to take advantage of those jobs, regardless of age, background or experience.”

Plans are in the pipeline for further skills programmes with Procure Plus in 2022, given a national shortage of construction candidates.

There is widespread demand for more skilled employees in numerous trades including scaffolding, carpeting, bricklaying, and electrical engineering, which, according to a recent survey by the CBI, could last for “years”.

For more information, visit Conwy Employment Hub – More information – Conwy County Borough Council.

News

Tasty new role for kitchen star thanks to North Wales jobs programme

AN INNOVATIVE jobs and training programme served up a tasty new role for Jason Davies.

Jason, from Old Colwyn, is now working as a kitchen porter at Hickory’s Smokehouse in Rhos-on-Sea thanks to the support of Conwy Employment Hub.

In partnership with the restaurant’s placement scheme ‘Smokehouse Stars’ and the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions), the 34 year-old took part in a nine-week course which built his confidence and included sessions on teamwork and communication, how to write a CV and real-time experience.

Conwy Employment Hub – which oversees Communities for Work, PaCE and Communities for Work Plus – was also on hand to provide him with work clothes and shoes, and mentoring advice and guidance via the DWP.

“I really enjoyed the course and am delighted to now have a job at the end of it because the team here at Hickory’s are fantastic, they have made it fun and helped me all the way,” said Jason.

“It was great to meet new friends and learn new skills, and I look forward to learning more.

“The Employment Hub removed barriers to me finding and securing this position, so I’ll always be grateful for this opportunity.”

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service, added: “We are absolutely thrilled for Jason, he showed great commitment throughout the course and was rewarded with a permanent role.

“He fully deserves it, and we wish him every success for the future.”

Communities for Work Adviser Wendy Harrison was also proud of Jason’s achievement and said:

“Jason was very keen to get back into the workplace and to access the nine-week training with Hickory’s.

“I’m so pleased, I knew he would do well and I’m sure he will be an asset to the restaurant team.”

A recent labour market report by the North Wales Regional Skills Partnership explored the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on key industries, including tourism and hospitality, which makes up more than 25% of employment in Conwy.

Candidate and skills shortages remain a substantial challenge across the region, a point echoed by Hickory’s Head Chef Luke King.

“Recruitment in this industry has been tough due to the pandemic so initiatives and opportunities like this work placement course are so valuable,” he said.

“Jason has been a terrific asset and has worked hard throughout the process. We are delighted to have him as part of the team.”

Hickory’s Training Programme Coordinator James Taylor added: “Jason has swiftly become an integral part of the back of house team and has built strong working relationships with those around him.

“It’s people like Jason joining us at every level that help us keep up with the demands on the industry, they allow us to continue to thrive and grow; they make us better.

“It’s been a journey and, from the moment Jason stepped through the doors of our Rhos-on-Sea restaurant to the second we handed him his apron, it’s one I’ve been proud to have been a part of.

“In just a few months he has gone from strength to strength – he is a different person, and while we’d love to take some credit for it, we can’t. We only gave him the tools he needed, through sheer hard work and determination he got himself to where he is today.”

For more information, visit Conwy Employment Hub – More information – Conwy County Borough Council.

News

NEETs to receive tailored skills support on virtual programme with social mobility charity

YOUNG people will receive tailored skills and employability support on an exclusive virtual programme with a transformative North Wales charity.

Sixteen to 25 year olds in Conwy county who are NEET (not in Education, Employment or Training) have the opportunity to join WeMindTheGap’s WeDiscover programme from February 14.

The initiative gives participants a chance to gain new skills and experiences and, with the support of a mentor, build a plan for a bright future.

Run in partnership with Conwy Employment Hub – which oversees the successful Communities for Work, Communities for Work Plus, and PaCE initiatives – it is a free opportunity for to up to 20 young people, supported by the European Social Fund through Welsh Government.

Participants will have access to guest speakers, interactive workshops, role model and mentoring advice, and sessions to improve confidence and self-esteem.

Encouragement and support are a key part of the programme, and after the 10 weeks ends graduates will receive on-going support as part of WeBelong.

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service, said they look forward to seeing the results of the pilot initiative and hope to forge even closer links with the social mobility organisation in the years ahead.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for young people in Conwy who are out of work and education to receive a high level of quality support and training from one of the leading charities in this region,” she said.

“The last two years have been challenging for everyone, particularly the vulnerable and those who are not in employment or lost their jobs because of the pandemic, so WeDiscover could be a lifeline for them.

“As well as the skills and connections they will make, being part of the WeMindTheGap community will have a long-term, positive impact on the lives of those who complete the course, so we encourage you to get in touch and be a part of this.”

The scheme has been a major success in Wales and the North West, and since WeMindTheGap programmes began in 2014 they have changed the lives of more than 200 young people, delivering £5.5m in social value and £2.4m in public savings – an overall impact of £7.9m.

Rachel Clacher CBE, Chair and Founder of WeMindTheGap, said: “Too many of our young people feel isolated and alone, especially during this pandemic, and don’t know what to change to make a change.

“Here’s a great place to start: WeDiscover is a virtual programme that young people can access from the safety of their own homes, that brings new skills, fun learning and new confidence in a supportive, encouraging, non-judgemental way. It’s a great first step to re-engaging with the world.”

Each young person joining the 10-week programme will receive a Discovery Box packed full of items to support their learning, engagement and, importantly, to ensure they have fun.

They will then go on to enjoy the ‘Discovery Village’ – a platform allowing for safe and easy access to a variety of engaging learning and development sessions, mapping individual progress and sharing ideas.

WeDiscover taster sessions will be taking place online from January 31, before the programme begins February 14. Weekly timetables will run from Monday to Thursday until the end of April. Referrals are now being taken.

For more information, email laura@wemindthegap.org.uk or call 0333 939 8818. Visit www.wemindthegap.org.uk and watch a video about WeDiscover here: We Discover | WeMindTheGap

Visit www.conwy.gov.uk/conwyemploymenthub for more on Conwy Employment Hub.

Care, Health

Jobs hub targeting unemployed to help meet crisis in social care sector

AN EMPLOYMENT and training service is targeting new candidates to help meet unprecedented demand for workers in the social care sector.

Conwy Employment Hub is holding virtual sessions that will introduce would-be recruits to roles within the industry, held over four days later this month.

In partnership with the Welsh Government and WeCare Wales, the Hub – which oversees the Communities for Work, Communities for Work Plus, and PaCE initiatives – is hoping to attract people who are currently NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).

With the UK facing a care jobs crisis – Brexit and mandatory vaccinations are among the biggest issues facing health chiefs – there is a nationwide push to plug the gaps as soon as possible.

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service, said: “While the sector is facing a tough time due to various factors it is important to remember this is a rewarding and skilled profession which needs support more than ever before.

“The two-day ‘Introduction to Social Care’ events will be held online, making them more accessible, and will provide basic knowledge of what’s needed to apply for a job.

“Essential skills include being reliable and committed with a positive and friendly attitude, caring for others, and demonstrating adaptability.

“If successful the candidates will receive further training in-post and there are progression pathways – it’s a great opportunity.”

In the last month, there were reportedly more than 760 care vacancies on recruitment portals in Wales, and nationally the number of old people living with advanced dementia is expected to double over the next two decades.

There are more than 70 care homes in Conwy county – 19 of which are private – and 30 domiciliary agencies.

Conwy’s Head of Integrated Adult and Community services Claire Higgins says the time is now to reverse the trend and lay the foundations for a more sustainable social care industry.

“There are dozens of careers within adult social care alone and it is a rewarding profession,” she said.

“For the aforementioned reasons we are in dire need of more workers across the country, so our aim is to demonstrate the many benefits to a career in this arena.

“From a personal perspective, social care has offered me so many opportunities over the last 25 years, developed my skills via training and experience and helped me to the position I am in now.

“I started as a support worker at 19 years old and found there are so many avenues you can take because there are so many people with such a variety of needs and age groups that we care for and support in different ways – we hope people will join us to find out more.”

Last year, WeCare Wales launched a bilingual online platform developed by Social Care Wales in collaboration with a wide range of national and local organisations to help jobseekers improve their employability, and employers identify people most suited to working in social care roles.

Their aim is to attract more than 20,000 extra people to social care and childcare over the next decade.

Sue Evans, Chief Executive of Social Care Wales, said: “With so many people looking for work we wanted to provide something that could help potential applicants understand if care is right for them, and if so, help them stand out from the crowd.

“Applying for a role in social care is great and we need all the support we can get, but a high turnover of staff makes things particularly difficult – not only for employers who then need to find someone else, but also the people they support. We want to help give more of an insight into these important roles, and the new online learning resource helps us do that.”

The online Introduction to Social Care sessions will be held from 10am-3pm on September 21, 22, 29 and 30. To register, visit https://bit.ly/3DlzZD9 or call 01492 575578.

For more on WeCare Wales and opportunities in the social care sector, visit www.WeCare.wales

Conwy, Jobs, North Wales

New service to replace Conwy jobs project that supported hundreds of young people

AN INSPIRING employment and education project has supported hundreds of Conwy youngsters over the last three years.

Launched in 2018, ADTRAC in Conwy has successfully helped 16-24 year olds across the county find or move towards jobs via bespoke mentoring, counselling, work experience, training and volunteering opportunities.

Over 350 referrals were made to the project and 200 young people supported, with a significant number of them gaining a qualification, moving into education and training, or starting a new career.

Others were signposted to partner organisations for help with a range of issues, from anxiety to homelessness, drug use and the negative and damaging impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite these challenging times the project has had many successes, with participants revealing it had a “positive” impact on their lives, “motivated me to change” and had a major effect on confidence.

Reflecting on the achievements of ADTRAC, Principal Officer for Employability and Skills, Libby Duo, said: “The team has had a positive effect on the lives of so many young people in Conwy, empowering them to take the next steps forward with confidence and belief.

“Even during the pandemic our mentors and counsellors adapted and communicated via virtual platforms, phone calls and email to ensure any employment or education opportunities were capitalised on.

“The feedback we have received before and during this challenging period has been incredible, and we are pleased to have been able to carry on helping youngsters in Conwy when they needed it most.”

ADTRAC was an EU-funded project supported by the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government.

Its target was to reduce the number of 16-24 year olds Not in Employment Education or Training (NEET) or economically inactive, and help them to remove complex barriers to work, learning and training.

The scheme is to be replaced by a new service this summer – Cynnydd/Progress, which is core funded by the Conwy Youth Service and will work in partnership with Conwy Employment Hub, which oversees the successful Communities for Work, Communities for Work Plus, and PaCE initiatives.

Cynnydd will continue ADTRAC’s good work and ensure young people in the area who are at risk of being NEET receive the best possible guidance and care.

Tracey Owen, who will manage the Cynnydd project, said “We want to take ADTRAC’s legacy and reassure the young people of Conwy county – especially those most hard to reach – that we are there for you, whatever you are facing.

“This is a voluntary programme; we just want to help and will do all we can to build better futures for those who come to us.”

For more information email prosiectcynnydd@conwy.gov.uk. Alternatively, call 01492 577117 or 07540 306 912.

NOTES: ADTRAC was a regional project led by Grŵp Llandrillo Menai in partnership with Conwy County Borough Council, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Anglesey County Council, Gwynedd County Council, Denbighshire County Council, Flintshire County Council and Wrexham County Borough Council.

News

Conwy youngsters turn to Kickstart Scheme as number claiming Universal Credit more than doubles

THE number of young people in Conwy claiming Universal Credit has more than doubled in the last year.

The county has experienced a 108% rise in 18-24 year olds receiving monthly income benefits since March 2020.

As a result – coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic – many are now turning to the UK Government’s innovative Kickstart Scheme to help them on the road to their future careers.

Supported by Conwy Employment Hub – which funds pre-Kickstart courses in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) – the Scheme covers the National Minimum Wage (or National Living Wage), national insurance and pension contributions of a participant on a new work placement for 25 hours a week over six months.

The initiative has been embraced by hundreds of companies including Key Care and Support, based in Llanfairfechan, a recruitment and care agency which used it to secure 30 positions for young people at organisations in North Wales and the North West.

Among them is Sophia Faux, whose placement is with Idlewild Animal Sanctuary in the Conwy Valley.

She said: “I joined Idlewild at the end of December and have gained new skills, including how to handle and care for an array of animals, and administering basic medication.

“Sadly, my time with them ends in June and I really wish it could continue as I have learnt so much, it has really boosted my confidence and helped me a lot.”

Key Care and Support Director Ian Finch encouraged other companies to take advantage of the Kickstart Scheme before it ends in December.

“We have opportunities for staff in administrative, health and social care and animal care work placements, and work closely to support young people develop their skills during the work placement, through effective mentoring and training,” said Ian.

“From the point of view of an employer, we are training the future workforce with the support of funding from the Kickstart Scheme as well as boosting the confidence of young people, so it is valuable.

“For us it has been hugely successful, but more importantly as a business owner I believe it’s vital we help young people find employment – I would definitely urge other businesses to consider it.”

Sam Chadburn, DWP Employer Partnership Manager for Conwy, echoed those words.

“Careers within the health and social care sector in Conwy are continually growing, so to have Ian and the team at Key Care and Support be so passionate about supporting young people into jobs is fantastic,” she said.

“We have seen a huge rise in the number of young people claiming Universal Credit since March last year, which is why it is more important than ever – notably given the challenges brought on by COVID-19 – that business owners see the benefits of creating new opportunities for our young people to learn and develop new skills under the Kickstart Scheme.”

Libby Duo, Conwy’s Principal Officer for Skills and Employability, added: “The time is now for employers to get in touch and help us identify suitable placements for young people across the region.

“This is a golden opportunity to help young people receive the support they so desperately need.”

Visit www.gov.uk/government/collections/kickstart-scheme for more.

For information on Conwy Employment Hub, email communitiesforwork@conwy.gov.uk or call 01492 575578. Alternatively, visit Conwy Employment Hub for more information and advice.

Charity & CSR, Food & Drink, North of England

Artists bounce back from hard times to feature in food poverty recipe book

TALENTED artists searching for a route into the creative industries were given a design for life by Conwy Employment Hub.

With the support of a dedicated mentor, Jamie Griffiths and Emily Gibbs were inspired to produce stunning artwork for the best-selling Secret Dishes from Around the World 2.

Published by Bounceback Food – a community interest company (CIC) serving people in food poverty across North Wales, Cheshire, and Greater Manchester – the book featured low cost, healthy recipes from all over the globe.

Having signed up for the Hub’s Communities for Work programme, Emily’s creativity came to the fore and she was invited to submit a painting for the publication.

Jamie, from Colwyn Bay, had been involved as a volunteer cook with their Sit and Stew project, a cafe offering a hot meal and a space for people to come together, but it was his artistic flare that most impressed the judges, who were searching for 20 pictures to complement their recipe ideas.

Despite many talented entrants, both Jamie and Emily, from Conwy, were successful, designing incredible images to showcase the cuisine of their allocated countries, Turkey and New Zealand.

The pair were also invited to the launch event in Manchester, with travel and even new outfits funded by the Hub.

Jamie said: “I was flattered and a bit humbled when asked to present some of my images for consideration to the Bounceback team.

“It’s been really gratifying to know that my illusions can go some way in alleviating societies burgeoning spectre of food poverty.”

Emily added: “This is quite possibly the coolest thing I’ve ever done, and I’m proud of the piece I made.

“I hope the book does well and feel like doing this project has shown me what I’m capable of; it’s definitely helped my self-belief.”

The new-look Conwy Employment Hub incorporates the successful Communities for Work, Communities for Work Plus, ADTRAC and PaCE programmes, providing anyone aged 16 and above who is not in employment, school, or college with access to mentors and advisors who can help “remove barriers” and enhance their future career prospects.

The everyday pressures of life are often major obstacles, which is where they step in, helping with things such as transport costs, childcare support, tenancy and housing issues as well as arranging food parcels and supporting people with their mental health.

Libby Duo, Conwy’s Principal Officer for Skills and Employability, congratulated Emily and Jamie for their successful contributions to the project.

“We have worked closely with Bounceback for many years and are so proud of both of them for producing such brilliant artwork, both pieces are fantastic,” she said.

“Most importantly, it gave them vital experience in the creative sector, which is where they both see their futures, and helped build their confidence – congratulations Emily and Jamie, what an amazing achievement.”

Duncan Swainsbury, Director of Bounceback, added: “Secret Dishes has been a wonderful project to work on and will raise vital funds for our organisation.

“It’s a unique cookbook that shows how, despite the many restrictions of 2020, creativity and community spirit can still flourish.

“We’re thrilled with the artwork that Emily and Jamie have produced for the book in their respective sections, it looks magnificent! They’ve both gained an enormous amount of confidence and self-belief by being involved in its production.”

For more information and to access support, call 01492 575578 or email communitiesforwork@conwy.gov.uk. Alternatively, visit www.conwy.gov.uk.

Visit www.bouncebackfood.co.uk for more on the community cookery school and to purchase a copy of Secret Dishes from Around the World 2.

NOTES: Bounceback’s community cookery initiative has helped teach thousands of people how to cook, donated over 10,000 items of food to foodbanks and provide over 75,000 meals as part of their wider outreach work, which includes catering, supper clubs and corporate cook-offs.

Communities for Work is a voluntary programme funded by the Welsh European Funding Office and provides a £41.2m investment in employment support in the 52 Communities First Clusters across Wales– this includes £24.8m of European Union funds. The programme is co-sponsored by the Department for Work and Pensions and runs until 2022.