Hastings MP praises Salvation Army Employment Plus

A Salvation Army scheme that supports people into work in Hastings has been praised by Sally-Ann Hart, the MP for the town, during a visit to the church and charity.  

The Conservative politician visited Hastings Citadel church at St Andrews Square recently to speak to people who have been helped by the Employment Plus service. She also met local church leader Lieutenant Debbie-Anne Hogarth, and Laura Guy, who leads employment services for The Salvation Army in London and the South East. 

Employment Plus offers tailored support to individuals including help with CV writing, accessing training, confidence building, applying for jobs and interview skills to help people not only find but stay in work.  

Debbie-Anne who leads Hastings Citadel, which provides a number of services to the community including a food bank, baby bank, pet food bank, said: “It was fantastic to welcome Sally-Ann Hart MP to our Employment Plus service and show her what a difference it is making to people in our community. 

“She was able to see what we were offering, and we helped her understand what is needed locally. It’s great to be able to offer Employment Plus and invite local people to see what they can do. We’ve also been able to support people in other ways because they’ve had that link with Employment Plus as well as signpost others to the service.”

Mrs Hart said: “During my visit to one of the weekly Thursday Community Cafe mornings held by The Salvation Army in Hastings I learned of the incredible work that they are doing in the town. I met with their dedicated Lieutenant Debbie-Ann Hogarth and team of volunteers.

"They provide support and advice to people looking for employment as well as budgeting advice, food parcels are provided for people in need and they have a store of baby and young children’s clothing. Their Community Cafe mornings in Hastings on both Tuesdays and Thursdays together with their lunch club are an important social hub. It is a wonderful place to meet up with other people, have a cuppa and a friendly chat."

Mrs Hart spent time chatting to jobseekers who were full of praise.

One said: “Hastings Job Centre referred me to Employment Plus and it’s the best thing they have done. They have really supported me with my CV and looking at my options for the future.”

Laura Guy, regional manager for Employment Plus in London and the South East, said: “The work going on at Hastings Corps is truly reflective of the community it serves and it was great to show our local MP just how vital this service is.”