MP welcomes new employment service for disabled and disadvantaged

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has welcomed the launch of a new employment service for those who are disabled or disadvantaged in the workplace. The service also provides support to employers.

Tim visited Right2Work at their premises in Kendal to meet staff who work at the new employment support service which launched last month. The service provides support and guidance to anyone who is disadvantaged or struggling in the workplace, whether that be from a physical or mental disability or other barriers due to personal circumstances. The service is also designed to provide support to employers with the issues that they face. The aim is to break down barriers to employment for both service users and employers.

There is currently a team of 8 advisors that cover Lancaster, Morecambe, Barrow, Kendal and the South Lakes. As part of the service, there is also a specialist Autism employment service covering all of Cumbria.

This service is in addition to the Furniture Warehouse which the organisation runs to recycle and restore old furniture. In 2015/16, this meant that 101 tonnes on waste was diverted away from landfill sites to be reused.

Tim said: "I enjoyed visiting Right2Work at their premises in Kendal. It was great to speak to staff and service users first-hand and to get an insight into their important work. There is already a lot of demand for the service and it has plans to expand further in the future.

"I would strongly encourage any individual who is struggling in the workplace or the jobs market to get in touch with this service. I'd also encourage employers to speak to the service, to find out how you can help staff that are struggling and benefit your business.

"I'd also like to congratulate the organisation on the continued success of the Furniture Warehouse, which supports people towards work and reduces waste."

Anyone wishing to access the Employment Support Service should call: 01539 758008