Just arrived via the CCA mailbox:My name is Gary Draycott and I am Regional Attraction specialist for an organisation called Equal Approach. Currently Equal Approach are working on a project with the Mentoring and Befriending Foundation and Remploy called Mentoring for Success. The sole purpose of this programme is to find Mentors/Befrienders for ex-Remploy staff who have recently been made redundant. Remploy’s mission is to transform the lives of disabled people and those who experience complex barriers to work by providing sustainable employment opportunities, either within their own factories or by helping individuals into work with outside organisations. It was established in 1945 under the terms of the Disabled Persons (Employment) Act 1944, and opened its first factory in Bridgend, Wales, in 1946. Following a review a number of factories across the country have been closed and the staff made redundant, including the factory in North Acton. Across the country Mentoring for Success is currently of the biggest volunteer programmes in operation and it offers individuals the opportunity to do something practical for the former Remploy staff members whilst receiving training and learning a new skill. This voluntary role is for 1-2 hours a week over a period of 6-18 months. Each mentee will have different things they want to get out of the relationship and this may include the mentor providing support and guidance in finding another job or just being somebody independent to talk to. Full training will of course be provided and support from a Regional Co-ordinator through the length of the relationship. Please visit http://www.equalapproach.com/mentoring.php Do you think that this project is something you may be able to help us with in any way? Even something as simple as including a short article in a newsletter or putting a poster up (please see attached) would be helpful. I f you are interested in learning more about the programme please feel free to do so on the number below. Best regards,
Sara Nathan ● 4902d