Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is celebrating the successful completion of two innovative employability programmes, which have supported 48 local people to unlock their potential and take meaningful steps towards employment.
Delivered through the Labour Market Partnership (LMP), the Thrive Programme and the Accessible Apprenticeship Programme were designed to support individuals with additional barriers to employment. Together, the programmes have seen 28 participants progress into employment or further education, marking a significant achievement for all involved.
The Lisburn and Castlereagh Labour Market Partnership, which creates targeted employment action plans to support individuals across the council area, is funded by the Department for Communities and the council. The partnership is based on collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.
Participants, delivery partners, and employers came together on the 9th June at a celebration event to recognise the dedication, resilience and success of those who took part.
These programmes reflect the power of collaborative working, bringing together Lisburn & Castlereagh Labour Market Partnership, Stepping Stones NI, and employer partners, to create real opportunities for individuals to build confidence, gain skills, and access the workplace.
Alderman James Baird, Chair of the Regeneration and Growth Committee, said:
“We are delighted to see the real and lasting impact that programmes like Thrive and the Accessible Apprenticeship Programme can bring to the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.
"These initiatives are helping to create more inclusive pathways into employment and support the development of a more inclusive society, where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
Paula Jennings, CEO of Stepping Stones NI, added:
“We are delighted to see the positive impact these programmes have had on participants, helping individuals build confidence, develop new skills and move closer to employment and greater independence.
"These achievements reflect the dedication of everyone involved and demonstrate the value of strong partnership, working in creating meaningful opportunities for people to reach their potential.”
At the heart of both programmes are the participants themselves, whose commitment and determination have driven these outcomes. Each individual has taken important steps forward, demonstrating that with the right support, barriers can be overcome and ambitions realised.
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council remains committed to developing and delivering programmes that promote inclusive growth, support local people, and create opportunities for all.