Citizens Advice Bureau and JobCentre Plus
The partnership with Citizens Advice Bureau
(CAB), launched in January 2009, helps Spire tenants who are
struggling with the increased costs of living. Customers needing
help get a priority referral to CAB for free, independent
advice.
This venture is just one way in which the
association is helping people to manage their finances. There is a
‘making the most of your money guide’ - which gives tenants access
to advice and top tips on budgets - and support for local credit
unions. A new Tenancy Support Officer also supports tenants in
maintaining their tenancies, and offers advice on finance and
benefits to help people maximise household incomes. Where people
have lost their jobs or been out of work for some time, Spire
offers the chance to access extra employment opportunities. A local
employment partnership with JobCentre Plus offers support through
‘prepare to work’ training, one-to-one mentoring and positive
recruitment practices.
Each year, the association has committed to
recruit a small number of people through New Deal. These vacancies
are ringfenced to lone parents, people with disabilities and
candidates who have been unemployed for a long time. There is even
a job interview guarantee where qualifying candidates meet at least
half the vacancy criteria. When a successful candidate is chosen,
they get the opportunity of a three-week ‘job trial’. This helps
them make sure that the job is right for them without risking their
benefit entitlement. Two employees have already been recruited in
this way, which led to permanent jobs with Spire Homes.
Please click on the images to enlarge