Initiatives like the Head Start to Employment Project are crucial for the success of the Thames Freeport. This project helps in creating a skilled workforce that comes from all backgrounds. This is important because a diverse workforce is essential for a strong and sustainable economy. The project also aims to help people in our communities get the training and opportunities they need to succeed. This ensures that everyone benefits from the growth of the Thames Freeport. By supporting people from all walks of life, we are building a workforce that can meet future challenges while creating a more equitable and inclusive society.
Empowering Marginalised Groups in Thurrock
Our project is focused on empowering marginalised groups in Thurrock who, with proper support through peer mentoring and coaching, can fill current skill shortages. We aim to assist residents from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities, including travellers, ex-offenders, young adults (16-25), women considering construction careers, men considering careers in childcare, the economically inactive, people with disabilities or special needs, individuals with mental health issues, and recent legal refugees or work visa holders.
These groups often face discrimination and multiple employment barriers despite their willingness to work and, in some cases, being highly skilled. We will partner local volunteers who will be trained to be peer mentors and coaches to work alongside individuals with specific agencies and organisations to remove these obstacles, facilitating entry into paid work in Freeport and Thurrock’s priority areas. For ex-offenders and some young people, we offer practical, supported volunteering opportunities on-site or with vetted employers we have previously collaborated with.
This helps them develop job-ready skills and a strong work ethic, preparing them for apprenticeship opportunities and working in logistics and construction industries. We will also encourage a minimum of level 2 or higher-level training in courses that will enhance their CVs and help them to access those opportunities where those higher-level skills are required. We will be partnering with training providers that specialise in these courses for that reason. .
Supporting Jack on His Fresh Start
Overcoming Barriers to Employment
Jack, a Tilbury-based 27-year-old man, recently joined the Head Start to Employment Project as part of his journey to rebuild his life after spending time in prison for grievous bodily harm (GBH). Our aim is to provide him with holistic person-centred support, guidance, and opportunities he needs to make a positive impact that will ensure his past does not affect his job prospects in the future.
To help Jack succeed, we will connect him with a peer mentor who will offer encouragement, understanding, and practical advice throughout his journey. We will also arrange for him to receive counselling on anger management to support his personal growth and well-being. Additionally, we will work with him to update his CV, ensuring he is well prepared to pursue new job opportunities.
Career Development with RailSafe Group
A key part of Jack’s journey will be his involvement with RailSafe Group, an organisation we partner with who are dedicated to helping ex-offenders build careers in rail management. Through this partnership, Jack will have the opportunity to complete an 8-week Level 2 Diploma in Rail Engineering Track Maintenance. This training will cover key areas such as personal track safety, drug and alcohol medical screening, small plant training (including the use of power tools), and an introduction to Network Rail standards. Upon successful completion of the course, Jack will be guaranteed employment with a rail company.
Ongoing Mentorship and Support for a Skilled Workforce
His peer mentor will remain by his side throughout the training and beyond, providing ongoing support as Jack transitions into employment. The mentor will help him navigate any social, psychological, or workplace challenges that may arise, offering guidance on conflict resolution, managing work relationships, and achieving a healthy work-life balance. This continued support aims to give Jack the best possible chance of sustaining employment for at least six months — a key milestone on his path to a fresh start.
Through compassion, consistency, and practical support, we hope to empower Jack to overcome barriers, achieve his goals, and build the future that he envisages.
This blog was written by Yewande Kannike, CEO and one of the founding members of of One Community Development Trust in Tilbury. Her creative and innovative approach to working in marginalised communities has a proven track record of local impact that has won several outstanding achievements for One Community, including, the prestigious Queens Award for Voluntary Services and the Transforming lives Award
