Moving On is an exciting, new 3 year employment programme for women in Kerry,
supported by NEWKD. The programme offers women free training, support, work
placements & links with employers. The programme, which only began last September, is going from strength to strength. 59 women have participated in the programme so far and 23 women have already found work.
The Moving On programme is co-ordinated by Lisa Fingleton. Lisa has a strong
background in the creative and community sector. Also on the team is Lisa O Flaherty as the Employment Support Worker. Both have extensive experience in supporting women and linking with employers. According to Lisa O Flaherty “The response from employers has been fantastic. Employers are realising the benefits of being more flexible with their hours and offering part time work options. By doing this, they are tapping into a huge resource of skilled workers. The women bring the necessary 21st century ‘new collar skills’ such as reliability, flexibility, team work and problem solving. Many women took time out to care for children or other family members and are now ready and committed to returning to work”.
This Wednesday 9th May to coincide with Europe Day the project hosted an Employers and Graduation morning in Listowel. Over thirty women attended. The two speakers were Lizzie Lyons from Lizzie’s Little Kitchen and Oonagh Harnett from Broderick’s Chemist. Both speakers shared stories about the resilience and determination they needed in their own professional journeys. They also talked about what they are looking for as employers. Oonagh emphasied the importance of common sense and a smile. She also said “If you want something badly enough, be prepared (when you come to meet the employer). You have to be happy in your work”. Lizzie stressed the importance of being customer focused and friendly. “I look for someone who is comfortable in their own skin and who can make good eye contact. It’s all about attitude”.
After the talks, the participants were presented with their certificates and each woman got the opportunity to speak about what the programme had meant for her. The feedback from all participants was overwhelmingly positive. Women spoke about how the programme helped women to create a vision for the lives, establish goals and ‘move on’ in new directions. According to Lisa Fingleton “We are delighted that so many women could attend the graduation. We are really privileged to work on such a great project with an amazing group of talented women. We are delighted to have days like today where employers share their experience with women looking for work”.
The programme is currently recruiting for the next phase of the project starting in September. The next free information morning will take place from 10-12 Wednesday the 23rd May at Aras an Phobail, Tralee. Please contact us to book a place or to find out more about becoming a participant on the programme.
For more information
contact: Lisa Fingleton 087 710 1198 lisafingleton@newkd.ie
