Project launched to help domestic abuse survivors gain sustainable employment
A project to help survivors of domestic abuse gain sustainable employment has been launched in St Albans District.
St Albans City and District Council has joined forces with its housing repairs contractor Morgan Sindall Property Services (PS) to provide the Phoenix Programme.
It will offer support for women victims to rebuild confidence and develop skills to enter or re-enter the workplace.
The initiative follows last year’s award to the Council of White Ribbon status for its work to end male violence against women.
Following this, the Council set up a multi-agency steering group to take further actions including the setting up of the Phoenix Programme.
Among the support offered is an assessment of job aspirations and needs, work experience and training in digital skills, CV preparation, interview techniques and personal finances.
Morgan Sindall PS will also guarantee interviews for roles within its business and with some of its suppliers.
The pilot programme was developed in partnership with Addressing Domestic Abuse, a community interest company.
It will be delivered by Morgan Sindall PS’s social value team who will work in with the Council to identify residents who may benefit and offer them the opportunity to do so.
Jacqui Taylor, Lead Councillor for Community Safety, said:
This programme can provide essential help to enable victims to move away from abusive relationships and change their lives on a long-term basis.
We look forward to working with our partners, Morgan Sindall Property Services, to provide this opportunity to abused women to gain a fresh start.
Last year, I signed the White Ribbon Promise on behalf of the Council, pledging to take action to halt male violence against women. The establishment of this programme shows how determined we are to do that.
Helen Sheen, Head of Social Value at Morgan Sindall Property Services, said:
Domestic abuse causes women to leave their abusive situation with very little, making it challenging for them to build an independent life.
The Phoenix Programme will allow us to share our support and resources, which will provide survivors with more choices and opportunities, helping rebuild their confidence and skills so they can gain long term employment.
“This is also a great opportunity for Morgan Sindall PS to increase workplace diversity by recognising the value of women affected by abuse and removing stereotypes.
Contact for the media: John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727-819533; john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.