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Posted on by r.donnelly

People 1st secures Investors in People Gold Award again!

Directors Ronan Heenan and Bernie Daly, celebrating the Investors in People Gold Award
From left, People 1st Directors Ronan Heenan and Bernie Daly receiving their Investors in People Gold Award

We are so excited to announce that People 1st has achieved the Investors in People Gold Award for the tenth year in a row!! In a testament to our unwavering commitment to employee development and organisational excellence, People 1st proudly announces the achievement of the Investors in People Gold award, an award we are proud to have held consecutively since 2012. This remarkable accomplishment marks over two decades of being recognised as an Investors in People accredited business, demonstrates our steadfast dedication to fostering a workplace culture that nurtures talent and drives success.

 “There is an evident sense of pride working in the organisation, with your people feeling

that they are playing their part in success, what it wants to achieve and also

making a difference to wider society through providing future opportunities for

learners. “.

Investors in People report 2023

The Investors in People Gold Award

The Investors in People Gold award is a coveted recognition in the business world, symbolising our commitment to achieving high standards in people management and development. It acknowledges our outstanding efforts in empowering employees, fostering a positive working environment, and continually striving for excellence. The feedback from our inspection with the Investors in People team underscores our proactive approach to people management, a strong commitment to innovation, and a dedication to building on our success, with the Investors in People team witnessing that:

 “ The company is recognised as having a very proactive approach

to people management and development and a strong commitment

to innovate and improve, building on success achieved and to

innovate services and offerings for the future. “

Investors in People Report 2023
People 1st Directors were delighted to attend a local Awards ceremony to celebrate Investors in People
Directors Bernie and Ronan collected our Investors in People Gold Award at a gala event in Belfast

Our Journey to Success with the Investors in People Gold Award

Since 2012, People 1st has consistently demonstrated dedication to employee well-being and professional growth. This recognition is a testament to our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where individuals thrive and contribute their best. The Investors in People report highlights the strong connection and sense of trust with our senior management team, reflecting the real, sincere team ethos that is an integral part of the culture we have worked hard to build.

Reinforcing our company goals with this coveted award!

As we celebrate this achievement, we remain focused on our goals, including establishing an effective learning and development culture, ensuring everyone understands their role, and empowering our people to take personal responsibility for innovation and continuous improvement. The Investors in People framework evaluates us based on key indicators, and our success in maintaining the Gold standard speaks volumes about our sustained focus on these critical aspects of organisational culture.

 ” Your recognised expertise, quality and professionalism in the sector was commented upon by your

people as the key to your success. Equally important, is your genuine

people-centric culture that allows for flexibility, commitment, and hard work.

Your core values are therefore viewed as important and fundamental in

supporting day to day activities. “

Investors in People report 2023

Delighted to Receive the Coveted Investors in People Gold Award

The leadership and employees of People 1st are delighted and proud to have achieved the Investors in People Gold award for this tenth consecutive year. This accomplishment reflects the collective efforts of the entire organisation, from top-level management to every team member contributing to our success. In an era where attracting and retaining top talent is a competitive advantage, the Investors in People Gold award serves as a powerful endorsement of People 1st as an employer of choice.

 “ Thanks to all the staff who participated in this We invest in People assessment by completing the

survey or through individual discussions. The conversations were interesting

and it was a pleasure to talk to members of your team about their work. Particular

thanks go to Bernie Daly and all of the senior leadership team, for their

ongoing commitment to Investors in People. “

Investors in People Report 2023
Happy business people at the Investors in People Awards Ceremony in Belfast
Spot our Directors – happy recipients of the Investors in Gold People Award

Looking Forward to 2024 and beyond

As People 1st celebrates this remarkable milestone, we remain committed to our core values and principles that have paved the way for this consistent success. The Gold award is not just a recognition of the past; it is a springboard for the future. People 1st is poised to build on this foundation, leveraging the award to attract top talent, foster innovation, and maintain a workplace culture that inspires excellence.  This recognition not only celebrates past accomplishments but also sets the stage for a future where People 1st continues to thrive as a workplace where individuals flourish and contribute to the company’s ongoing success as one of our team members said themselves during the process…genuinely people come first and that is why we have developed really strong relationships that have helped this business adapt and grow”  

Business people gather in Belfast to collect their Investors in People Gold Award
The Investors in People team and recipients of all award levels, at the Gala event in Belfast

Congratulations to everyone involved in People 1st on this well-deserved accolade, and thank you for each team member’s communal effort. Together, let’s realise your ambition! Lets finish off with final words from the Investors in People team about this Gold Award

” Everyone should be extremely proud of the ethos, values, and culture within People 1st that have helped maintain this We invest in people Gold award. This achievement is all the more significant considering how the organisation and everyone within it faced unprecedented challenges as a result of the global pandemic. We wish you continued future success. “ 

If you would like to read more about the Investors in People Gold Award then here is a link to their website: https://www.investorsinpeople.com/ and you can find out about this award and other awards such as the Deloitte Ireland ‘Best Managed Companies’ here: https://people-1st.co.uk/about/

Posted on by r.donnelly

We are delighted to announce this exciting Support Services Employment Academy with Mid & East Antrim Labour Market Partnership, created for council residents wishing to work in Health & Social Care.

Would you like to work in Health and Social Care? Join our Academy today!

Fast Track your way to working in the Care sector!

Always wanted to help others and work in the Care sector but weren’t sure how to go about it, or maybe you have no experience and need a bit of support with the interview process? Then this 5 day FREE Support Services Employment Academy course will be a fantastic starting point for you!

Starting on Monday the 27th of November, our helpful and supportive Academy team will take you and other candidates through our specially created programme to fast track your way into employment within this in-demand sector.

What is the Support Services Employment Academy?

It is an enjoyable employment programme created to assist those new to the Health and Social Care sector, by giving you a great insight into the roles available and the care you might give in these various job roles. Over the 5 days of the Support Services Employment Academy you will have access to our specialist training created specifically to give you a strong overview of what you need to work in the care industry. We will provide you with support and mentoring to gain employment and you will gain access to our database of employers who have live vacancies across the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council area with full time, part time and casual contracts all available to start now!!

Mid and East Antrim Support Services Academy team member working alongside an elderley man in a care in the community role
Help those living in your community with a range of employment opportunities in Care

What do you learn during the 5 days on this Support Services Employment Academy?

What will the 5 days cover?

  • Working in Care: An exploration of the diverse range of career pathways within the social care sector.
  • Introduction to Care Standards, RQIA and The Social Care Council
  • Values and attributes, underpinning principles, and standards of practice
  • Consolidation of online learning module on confidentiality: Information Governance and Cyber Security
  • Meet the employer – Guest speaker from care sector outlining what they look for in an employee

What are the benefits of taking part in this Support Services Employment Academy?

Benefits to taking part in this Support Services, Health and Social Care Academy?

  • A chance to improve employability
  • Guaranteed interviews with employers
  • Access to industry standard vocational training
  • One to one mentoring support for the duration of the programme
  • An introduction to the sector and an insight into the range of job roles available

We have also videos and case studies from past participants from various Academies on our website here: https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/academies/ so please visit this link to find out more and hear how life-changing it can be!

Work in Health and Social Care with Mid and East Antrim and help those in need locally!
Help in the home roles as well as various other settings within Health and Social Care

Who can apply for the Support Services Employment Academy?

You must be over 16 years of age and living in the Mid and East Antrim areas to apply for the Support Services Employment Academy. Preference will be given to those who are economically inactive, long- term unemployed or under-employed (working less than 16 hours).

How to apply for the Support Services Employment Academy?

For registration and further information please email Kim from People 1st at [email protected] or [email protected]

You can also find further information about the Mid and East Antrim Labour Market Partnership and their employment initiatives here: https://www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/business/amplify-mid-and-east-antrim/employment-and-skills-support/labour-market-partnership

Make that first step today, and apply for a place on this Academy

Tina, aged 47 from Ballymena, took part in a past Support Services Employment Academy- hear what she had to say about her experience!

Tina, 47, from the Ballymena area had been unemployed for 3 years but unfortunately had to leave her job due to medical conditions. She really wanted a job which helped people and supported them to live a better quality of life. Tina had over 10 years experience working in a special needs role and knew that her passion lay in working with individuals who needed extra assistance and support, to help them lead full and independent lives.

Tina saw the Mid and East Antrim Employment Academy advertised in the local paper and thought it would be a good opportunity to try and re-enter the employment market.

Tina was assigned a Mentor from People 1st, who contacted her to chat through her employment goals. It became obvious that she had some concerns regarding her medical history and coming back into employment. Tina’s mentor spent time chatting to her about both physical and mental health concerns, reassuring her that these were challenges that could be overcome. Tina was nervous as she had had a very bad experience in her workplace previously and this negatively affected her mental health. This had left her worried about references and how she would be able to move beyond that experience.

Tina stated “ I thought due to my past experience I wouldn’t get good references but after speaking to People 1st, I was reassured and my mind was put to rest and here I am working with three great references.’’ After reassuring Tina that these where areas which could be overcome, she became more motivated to gain employment in the Health and Social Care sector.

Tina attended the academy with People 1st which boosted her confidence and helped her understand the basic principles of care work. Tina was supported to apply for work and prepare for interviews. Tina successfully gained an offer of employment from a local nursing home and is now undertaking her NVQ Level 2 with People 1st, while working in her new job.

“I’m so glad I contacted people 1st, it’s been a great experience. The support from the One to One phone calls, Zoom meetings, the emotional support, help with interview techniques and being encouraged to think I can do this!!!. I love how it’s given me confidence to get out working again. I really love working with people again and has given me confidence and I really enjoy my work. Thank you to everyone in People 1st”

Tina, Ballymena- Past Mid and East Antrim Academy Participant

So if you are sitting at home, reading this and thinking you would love to do something like Tina then please reach out and get in touch with us today, as we would love to help you through our Support Services Employment Academy, achieve a rewarding career in caring, like we did with Tina.

Email Kim at [email protected] today and we will be in touch to secure your spot!

Posted on by r.donnelly

If you are interested in working part time for People 1st, then please read on as we have a fantastic opportunity to join our Joinery team in Dundrod, at our People 1st Construction Training Academy.

At People 1st we have a large team of ‘associate’ tutors. Being an associate tutor offers more flexibility to those who are looking for part-time work to suit personal and professional circumstances, while still earning an attractive hourly rate. At People 1st we are focused on developing our team and support our associate tutors with the opportunity to progress and engage in Continuous Professional Development.

“The most important thing for me that as a People 1st associate, you are still part of a team where you have excellent support and guidance when needed and are included in the company’s wide range of CPD provision and progression opportunities.  I started as an associate tutor and am now IQA and Curriculum lead for CCLD.  You also have flexibility with working, gain the benefits that come with being self-employed and also job satisfaction with teaching and achievements of learners.” Jennifer Boyle, CCLD IQA and Curriculum Lead

ASSOCIATE JOINERY TUTOR/ ASSESSOR:

Are you an experienced joiner and ready for a change? Do you like explaining to others how to do things? Then how about working in a teaching role with People 1st? We have a custom-built Construction Training Academy at the C.I.T.B training grounds in Dundrod, and we need a Joinery NVQ Assessor to join the team!

  • Location: CITB Dundrod, People 1st Construction Training Academy
  • Responsible to: Centre Manager
  • Hourly Rate: £20-25
  • Hours currently available: 12 hours
  • WORKING HOURS: Full day =6 hours
  • Job closing date: 12 noon, Friday 2nd Dec 2022

It is at this training facility where our young people learn the skills needed for the carpentry industry, and you will be an essential part of their learning journey. Aged 16-24, the People 1st learners are studying for their Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ Assessments in Site Carpentry on our Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI programmes. Part of your role will be carrying out initial and diagnostic assessments which will help inform group learning plans and allow accurate tracking of each participants progression towards the required target level for each NVQ.

We are also looking for someone who is an active participant in the company’s quality improvement processes, open to self-evaluation and proficient in paperwork and organisation as you will be tasked with administrating all the necessary Department for Economy forms as well as other appropriate documentation, compliant with departmental guidelines.

Personal Specification
Essential

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in site Carpentry
  • Site experience attained across first fixing, second fixing and roofing
  • GCSE grade ‘C’ or equivalent in Math and English. 
  • Either hold, be working towards or happy to work towards a recognised teaching qualification, i.e., PGCE, B Ed, Certificate in Teaching (UUJ), or Diploma in Teaching and Management of Essential Skills.
  • A current driving licence and access to a car.
  • An effective communicator, sympathetic and understanding to the needs of young people.  
  • A high degree of commitment, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to develop and promote ideas effectively.  

Desirable

  • Experience in the delivery of accredited programmes
  • Assessor award (Can be obtained in house)

Behaviours/Capabilities

  • Positive, enthusiastic approach to problem solving with a “can do” attitude
  • Confident and professional approach
  • Organised and efficient methods of working
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to multi-task, plan and prioritise workload and adapt rapidly to changing priorities
  • Systematic approach to data collection, analysis and reporting
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
  • Demonstrate a genuine commitment to the personal and occupational success of the long 
          term unemployed
  • Creative and innovative approach to problem solving

To apply please send a copy of your cv to our Jacqueline Mc Stravick in our rectruitment team on [email protected] by 12 noon on Friday 2nd December, 2022. 
Best of luck to all applying!

Posted on by r.donnelly

If you are interested in working part time for People 1st, then please read on as we have a fantastic opportunity to join our Barbering team in Belfast.

At People 1st we have a large team of ‘associate’ tutors. Being an associate tutor offers more flexibility to those who are looking for part-time work to suit personal and professional circumstances, while still earning an attractive hourly rate. At People 1st we are focused on developing our team and support our associate tutors with the opportunity to progress and engage in Continuous Professional Development.

“The most important thing for me that as a People 1st associate, you are still part of a team where you have excellent support and guidance when needed and are included in the company’s wide range of CPD provision and progression opportunities.  I started as an associate tutor and am now IQA and Curriculum lead for CCLD.  You also have flexibility with working, gain the benefits that come with being self-employed and also job satisfaction with teaching and achievements of learners.” 

Jennifer Boyle, CCLD IQA and Curriculum Lead

ASSOCIATE BARBERING TUTOR/ ASSESSOR:

Are you an experienced barber and ready for a change? Do you like explaining to others how to do things? Then how about working in a teaching role with People 1st? We have a fully operational teaching salon environment in the Hairdressing and Barbering Training Academy at our Ormeau Road branch, and we need a Barbering NVQ Assessor to join the team!

  • Location: Ormeau Road, People 1st Hairdressing and Barbering Training Academy
  • Responsible to: Centre Manager
  • Hourly Rate: £20-25
  • Hours currently available: between 6 and 12 hours, Mondays to Wednesdays ( can be flexible)
  • WORKING HOURS: Full day =6 hours
  • Job closing date: 12 noon, Friday 2nd Dec 2022
  • How to apply? Email your CV to Jacqueline McStravick on [email protected]

It is at this training facility where our young people learn the skills needed for the barbering industry, and you will be an essential part of their learning journey. Aged 16-24, the People 1st learners are studying for their Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ Assessments in Barbering on our Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI programmes. Part of your role will be carrying out initial and diagnostic assessments which will help inform group learning plans and allow accurate tracking of each participants progression towards the required target level for each NVQ.

We are also looking for someone who is an active participant in the company’s quality improvement processes, open to self-evaluation and proficient in paperwork and organisation as you will be tasked with administrating all the necessary Department for Economy forms as well as other appropriate documentation, compliant with departmental guidelines.

Personal Specification:

Essential

  • A minimum of Level 3 qualification in subject area plus minimum of 2 years salon experience
  • Assessor award 
  • GCSE grade ‘C’ or equivalent in Math and English. 
  • Hold, be working towards, or happy to work towards a recognised teaching qualification, i.e., PGCE, B Ed, Certificate in Teaching (UUJ), or Diploma in Teaching and Management of Essential Skills.
  • A current driving licence and access to a car.  
  • An effective communicator, sympathetic and understanding to the needs of young people.  
  • A high degree of commitment, excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to develop and promote ideas effectively.  

Desirable

  • Qualification and experience in hairdressing.  
  • Experience in the delivery of accredited programmes

Behaviours/Capabilities:

  • Positive, enthusiastic approach to problem solving with a “can do” attitude
  • Confident and professional approach
  • Organised and efficient methods of working
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to multi-task, plan and prioritise workload and adapt rapidly to changing priorities
  • Systematic approach to data collection, analysis and reporting
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
  • Demonstrate a genuine commitment to the personal and occupational success of the long 
          term unemployed
  • Creative and innovative approach to problem solving

To apply please send a copy of your cv to our Jacqueline Mc Stravick in our rectruitment team on [email protected] by 12 noon on Friday 2nd December, 2022.
Best of luck to all applying!

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