Support and Skills
A strong message across the conversations was that people need more support, both during the recruitment process and once in work. Six sub themes were most common.
Recruitment
Participants described barriers to finding and accessing work, including a sense that there were limited local opportunities.
Suggestions included:
- More job fairs
- More empathetic work coaches
- Clearer information about jobs through local and online press adverts
- Some participants also raised concerns about reliance on agency recruitment instead of local and community based recruitment.
- People asked for recruitment processes to feel less intimidating, and some wanted practical guidance, including what to wear for interviews.
Childcare and housing availability
Participants raised the impact of a lack of housing near workplaces, including the knock on effect this can have on family support not being close by.
Poor childcare options were also mentioned as a barrier to returning to work. In one case, this was linked to housing availability, with people unable to live close enough to family members who might otherwise help with childcare (for example, grandparents).
Workplace crèches were mentioned as one possible way to reduce this barrier.
Understanding of healthcare challenges
Participants said employers need to better recognise health challenges, including “hidden” disabilities and mental health.
Participants also highlighted the value of:
- Flexible working
- Phased returns
- “Staggered integration” when starting a new role
Digital Inclusion
Digital inclusion came up as a barrier to both getting work and staying in work.
In two sessions, participants pointed to difficulties using information technology (IT) and a lack of access to free computers and internet during the job application process.
Tailored Support
Participants wanted workplaces to offer support that is tailored to the individual, both during and after recruitment.
Examples included:
- Opportunities to shadow colleagues
- Buddy systems
- Job sharing
- Personalised feedback during recruitment
Confidence was described as an important factor helping people stay in work. In contrast, low confidence and fear of being judged were described as barriers to finding, staying in, or returning to work.
Signposting and Development
A theme that ran across several topics was the need for better signposting, both inside and outside the workplace.
Participants described gaps in information and support, including:
- Understanding what support is available and how to apply for it
- How to navigate local transport options and alternatives
- Practical support for interviews (including what to wear)
- Accessible resources to help with applications
- Developing new skills
- Finding local work opportunities in a rural area