Rossendale Works

Rossendale Works is a partnership between Active Lancashire, the Department of Work and Pensions and Rossendale Borough Council. This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Like other projects and services linked to Active Lancashire, Rossendale Works has at its heart an emphasis on the value of sport and physical activity. By drawing on Active Lancashire’s extensive experience gained from similar projects such as Challenge Through Sport Initiative, we know that by encouraging programme participants to be more physically active, we see great improvements in participant confidence and self esteem leading to better health and economic prosperity outcomes. Staffed by our dedicated team who work collaboratively with Rossendale Job Centre, our main focus is to match eligible participants with local employers able to offer work experience and training opportunities. Prospective employers are provided with a profile of matched participants for consideration, progressing to interview before work placements begin. The Rossendale Works team remain on hand throughout the interview and placement process to provide help should it be needed. Our mentoring approach is proven to produce effective outcomes. Before participants are put forward for work placement, we have worked with them to identify and address any barriers to employment, helping them to develop their own strengths and work interests. Each participant receives a tailored program that allows overcoming social barriers, creating positive pathways. This approach helps to prepare the participant to confidently re-enter the workplace. Afterwards, the participant can also expect support with job applications. With the support of our funding, participants are able to continue to claim their usual benefits for the duration of the work placement, which is typically for 4 weeks, allowing employers the opportunity of an extended trial of potential employees before they commit. The project boasts a track record of success of getting participants into employment and work placements, but importantly, sees many engaging in a range of community activities, and making a valuable contribution to stronger more cohesive neighbourhoods.