Charity opens Back To Work scheme

Thursday 5th April 2012

Long-term unemployed people living with HIV can access a charity scheme to help them return to work.

HIV and sexual health charity the Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) successfully piloted its Back To Work scheme in 2011 and is now accepting applications for this year.

In Back To Work, people are given a chance to undertake a six-month work placement with the charity, developing skills and experience that will make it easier for them to find paid employment.

In the pilot, 10 people with HIV work for up to 16 hours a week across a variety of THT departments in its central office, at Gray's Inn Road, London. After six months, one participant was in paid full time employment, two were in paid work, and two were undertaking further education courses. After the project, 80 per cent of participants felt more confident about coming to work, and all felt more ready for work.

This year, placements will be offered in London and Brighton.

Garry Brough, membership officer at Terrence Higgins Trust said: 'Last year's Back to Work scheme was a real success. Some of our participants have gained employment, while we've seen others transform into confident, productive people. We want this year's scheme to be even better."

The Back To Work scheme is open to anyone living with HIV who has been unemployed for two years or more, or who is receiving benefits. The deadline for applications is April 30.

For more details and to apply visit http://www.tht.org.uk/backtowork.

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