17 Salford residents secure work after paid work placement programme

17 Salford residents have now secured work through the dedicated support of this year’s Salford Futures programme, a testament to the strength of partnership from local employers and the determination of the participants.

Salford Futures supports residents who are unemployed, facing barriers to work, or seeking their first opportunity after a period of being away from work through a paid work placement. This year’s programme brought residents from diverse backgrounds together with employers who were wanting to offer work experience within their organisations.

The programme reached a proud milestone last month, as participants, employers, mentors and partners came together at Eccles Town Hall to celebrate the end of the programme and recognise the remarkable achievements of everyone involved.

A highlight of the event was a series of awards presented to individuals who have gone above and beyond during their placements:

• Outstanding Contribution Award: Stephen Leverett (Salford CVS)
• Customer Champion Award: Ombolanle Ajayi (CommUNITY Little Hulton)
• Rising Star Award: Fama Jallow (Salix Homes)
• Positive Energy Award: Madison Friend (Salford Employment Hub)
• Above and Beyond Award: Harry Wright (ForHousing)
• Team Player Award: Zara Atkinson (CommUNITY Little Hulton)
• Most Adaptable Award: Jessic McGarrigle (ForHousing)

Through paid work experience placements, training, pastoral support and help from the Supported Employment service, participants have built confidence, strengthened practical workplace skills, explored career pathways across local organisations and received tailored one to one support.

Participants Stephen and Alexcia, whose stories were previously shared through the Trailblazing the Way blog series, both joined Salford Futures through the Supported Employment service, which helps residents with additional needs access meaningful paid work. Their progression demonstrates how personalised support can create long term change.

Stephen said:

This has really improved my confidence and developed my skills. I’ve developed a lot of IT skills, my creativity, and my communication. I feel like the programme has pointed me in the right direction. The programme helped ease me back into work again. More than anything, I’ve enjoyed it.”

The event also marked the launch of a video capturing stories from across the programme. Featuring participants, managers, mentors and employers, the video reflects the people involved in this year’s programme, their journeys, and the real-life impact of meaningful support.