As restaurants and visitor attractions are opening back up, many employers are recruiting staff to help with the demand. The Work-wise Foundation in partnership with Magna recently delivered a Get Up to Speed event at Magna Science and Adventure Centre. The event attracted schools and colleges from across the region and featured hands-on exhibitions and interactive workshops to promote careers in Tourism, Hospitality, Culture, Creativity, the Arts and Sports sectors.

Leading employers, Grimm & Co, Wentworth Woodhouse, SBD Apparel, Rotherham United Community Sports Trust and Wessex Archaeology were amongst exhibitors inspiring and encouraging young people to consider careers in these sectors. Attendees described the event as interesting, insightful, and unique. This event is part of a series of events taking place in the run up to Rotherham becoming the Children’s Capital of Culture (CCoC) in 2025.

Find out about the Get Up to Speed events and the Children’s Capital of Culture to get involved in future events.

The Endorphins Group exists to create inspirational programmes that transform and empower individuals to reach their full potential – whatever level that is. This includes their Empower Course which is delivered either in group in-person sessions or online.

Mohammed was out of work on long term sick leave before he enrolled onto the Endorphins’ Empower programme. Empower helped Mohammed explore ways to cope with his anxiety and stress so he could return to work. He is now employed as a non-executive board member for a charity. 

Nazam was unemployed and unsure about his future when he enrolled onto Empower. The programmed helped Nazam to adapt to a positive way of thinking and learn new techniques to remain calm and boost his confidence. As well as identifying his skills and abilities that are an asset to employers. Nazam is now working as volunteer and continues use mindfulness techniques as part of his home and working life. Empower has given him the confidence to apply for paid employment opportunities.

Find out more about Endorphins and their Empower programme or to book yourself or refer someone onto the course email empower@endorphins.uk.

Employment is for Everyone is a social movement happening across South Yorkshire aiming to improve employment opportunities for individuals with Autism and learning difficulties. It was launched in collaboration with Speakup, Dexx, Art Works, and EDLounge and is supported by Rotherham Council, Community Catalysts, and the South Yorkshire Integrated Care System.

Gullivers Valley recently hosted an event to officially launch the website and share success stories from Rotherham Council, Gullivers Valley, and AESSEAL. Employers from a range of industry sectors commented on how they found the success stories inspiring, as they showcased the individual’s achievements and the ways their lives have been positively impacted through employment.

Following the event, 21 employers committed to offering employment opportunities to people with autism and learning difficulties, and four businesses shared job vacancies in the first week of the website going live.

You can find support available, employment opportunities and more information on the Employment is for Everyone website.

Kyle, aged 21 previously completed six weeks of work experience before he signed up to the Kickstart scheme. Through the Kickstart Scheme, he was provided with one-to-one support with an Employment Solutions Officer, who helped him to write a CV and apply for jobs. During this time, Kyle came across a cleaning operative role at Hillsborough Stadium and was supported through the application process right up until his interview. Kyle is now a permanent employee at Hillsborough Stadium and is enjoying earning a wage in a role he is passionate about, where he can continue to thrive and achieve his goals after recently being diagnosed with Autism. 

Find out more about the Employment Solutions Team and the support they can offer you by calling 01709 249 600.

The ESF funded Advance Rotherham programme tailors support for individuals working across the borough to upskill, find their next job, improve their qualifications, or even start their own business.

Care-worker Krystal decided she wanted a career change because her caring role did not provide the flexibility she needed. Krystal was referred to the Advance Rotherham programme by DWP, to explore other career options. Meeting an Advance adviser led to Krystal completing an Autism Awareness Course with the RNN College. Krystal is now preparing to start a Level 3 Childhood Studies course. Advance continues to support Krystal, to help her find volunteer work, to gain experience and develop her employment opportunities.

Find out more about Advance Rotherham, or follow them on Facebook. To contact the team, please email advanceRMBC@rotherham.gov.uk or call 01709 289900.

The Start in South Yorkshire Careers platform for adults has been launched and is packed with practical information to start your career journey including:

Search for jobs – Explore live job vacancies and apprenticeship opportunities.

Skills – Access free courses to improve your digital and employability skills. Use the CV builder to help you make the best first impression on employers.

Our Economy – Explore key industries and employers in South Yorkshire.

About – Find out about Rotherham, the wider region, and its employers.

Support – Connect to training providers offering free courses funded by the Adult Education Budget. Access local employment support and advice.

Find out more and access the Start in South Yorkshire Careers platform for adults.