Working with Mitie to help unemployed people

People who are unemployed in Southend-on-Sea experienced transformation through a joint initiative with FTSE 250 strategic outsourcer Mitie’s Environmental+ business.

A number of individuals facing specific barriers to employment, who were willing to take on training, have been placed into work in the area.

A team of cleaners and a supervisor for ODEON were recruited and within six weeks all members of the team had excelled in their roles and become indispensable to ODEON and Mitie.

Salvation Army Employment Engagement Co-ordinator for Southend, Julie Bakonyvari, said: ‘Each year, The Salvation Army helps thousands of people back into employment, enabling them to achieve their full potential and transform their lives. Our tailored support means we can help people meet their goals and aspirations, while identifying barriers preventing them from achieving these. We have been fortunate to forge links with Mitie, who have provided valuable additional assistance to those we are supporting back into employment - we look forward to continuing this working relationship.’

Rob Cattell, Managing Director of Environmental+ business, said: ‘This is a brilliant example of how collaboration between local charities and businesses can make a real difference to local people. Mitie is committed to providing support to the long-term unemployed and this is proof that our approach works, helping to transform lives and make a real difference to our client ODEON as well.’

After being employed by Mitie at ODEON, the team received ongoing training and support from The Salvation Army to support their transition into full-time employment.