Cannock Chase
UCATT’s Vulnerable Workers Unit used a Celebration of Learning event to combine an introduction to ICT skills, advice on CV writing and job seeking with education on financial management. Ten construction workers at risk of redundancy at Cannock Chase District Council took part in the Basic IT Workshop and Moneymadeclear CFEB Presentation on 2th October 2010, helping them to update their skills and improve their employability during this uncertain time.
The UCATT members participating in the Celebration of Learning event work in the Direct Labour Organisation (DLO) at Cannock Chase District Council. They will learn in January whether or not or not the in-house bid for the repair and maintenance contract has been successful: but they could be transferring to a new employer.
Senior Shop Steward Andy Thurstance said: “There is a lot of uncertainty at the moment, but this event was absolutely fantastic and has helped restore morale.”
Online Basics
Derby College Trade Union Education Tutor, Sue Long, ran the Online Basics ITC Workshop using the UK Online website (www.ukonlinecentres.com) it covered:
- Starting with a keyboard – learning the functions of different keys and practicing typing
- Starting with a mouse – following simple step by step instructions to learn how to use a computer mouse
- Using email – learning how to send and receive emails
- Using online searches – learning how to do search the internet, find websites and bookmark them
- Using the internet safely – learning practical techniques to stay online
The workshop combined an introduction to using ICT with advice on CV writing and searching for and applying for jobs.
“Your CV is the single most important weapon in your armoury,” said Sue. “You only have about 5 seconds to grab an employer’s attention so yours has to stand out.”
The workshop examined why a CVs are rejected and looked at first impressions, visual layouts and the ideal length of a CV. It also included general CV tips and where to find more information- including online sources of help. Everyone created a CV and saved it on their UCATT memory stick for future use.
“It was a really useful workshop said Sue. “There are many people who have no IT skills at all and workshops like this give them the confidence to have a go. They really enjoyed getting their hands on the computers.”
Money Made Clear
Consumer Finance Education Body (CFEB) Midlands Regional Manager, Susan Cassar, provided advice on managing money, keeping track of finances, making informed decisions about financial products and staying up to date with financial matters. She looked at budgeting, saving and investing, borrowing, dealing with problem debt, insurance and planning for retirement.
“In the workshop, people were particularly interested in how credit ratings work and affordable borrowing,” said Susan. “We looked at what APRs are and the importance of keeping away from loan sharks”.
Working with UCATTs Vulnerable Workers Unit has helped the CFEB increase access to financial awareness.
“Having UCATT out there looking for opportunities for where our work fits in with what’s needed is fabulous,” she added. “Our relationship with the VWU is unique and allows us to work in partnership to provide support to workers facing redundancy in their place of work.”
A Great Training Opportunity
Both Managers and UCATT representatives welcomed the Celebration of Learning Event.
“UCATTs Vulnerable Workers Unit provided a great training opportunity o the staff here at Cannock Chase District Council,” said Training & HR Officer, Janice Turner. “Through teaching online basics and financial capacity all attendees were able to learn a set of skills which will not only improve efficiency in the workplace; but also improve essential life skills.”
And Andy Thurstance added “The VWU came in and did a fantastic job. The feedback was all positive and we’ve already got the next ten workers signed up.”
