What is pre-employment? Brighton Council's pathways for local businesses

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role at Brighton & Hove City Council?

I’m Donna Keenan and I lead and manage the apprenticeship and pre-employment programmes for the council. I work closely with stakeholders and partners in the city to deliver a range of different events/programmes which provide people with an insight into different sectors and job roles. Being informed of the many careers paths and opportunities available gives people the confidence to make the decision that is right for them.

What is pre-employment and why is it important for our city?

Pre-employment is about providing an experience of the world of work to support individuals to transition into paid employment. It is important for the city to help local residents find their best next step with experience of the workplace to raise their aspirations.

What pre-employment programmes are available in Brighton and what kind of businesses suit each opportunity?

Common pathways and programmes for pre-employment fall into three types:

1. Education based – work experience for young people who are still at school or studying at college.
2. Programmes to help unemployed people get back into work.
3. Pathways for people with additional needs to access employment.

Each opportunity can be tailor-made to suit all types of business and there is no one size fits all. Businesses from all sectors and size can get involved. Education providers will support you to identify the most suitable opportunity for your business.

What benefits can pre-employment bring to businesses?

Offering pre-employment to people in the city can contribute to the development of a more skilled workforce in your business. If you have experienced recruitment challenges and are looking to try something different this can you give you access to a wider diverse pool of candidates.

How time consuming will it be to offer an opportunity and what support will businesses get?

Sometime would be needed to set-up an opportunity at the beginning which would be fully supported via the education provider who will guide businesses through the process to make it as easy as possible.

You’ve set up a pre-employment forum. Can you tell us more about this?

The Business Pre-Employment Forum has been set up to help employers navigate the different programmes available and how to access relevant funding opportunities. The forum will enable businesses to share ideas, knowledge and experiences.

The Pre-Employment Toolkit was launched at the first meeting in September. Find the toolkit here.

The next meeting will be on 18 November, head here to reserve a spot. 

With thanks to Donna Keenan from Brighton & Hove City Council. 

Photography by Beth Wild. 

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk