Learning & Employment

DISC has operated skills training and employability programmes from its inception in 1985. Throughout that time we have had a focus on groups and individuals marginalised in the labour market. We have operated a very wide range of programmes including specifically for offenders and people who have been unemployed for some time.

Our experience of delivering Learning and Employment programmes includes:-

As can be seen from the above, we have the expertise to run a very diverse range of provision in getting particular individuals and client groups back into training and employment.

We are currently developing provision which integrates employment support with other types of assistance for people with a range of needs. DISC also operates programmes in relation to housing support, drug and alcohol treatment, offending and family support. We a have the ability to develop programmes which integrate these specialisms with employment support.

For example we have been running a very successful programme in the town of Hartlepool which provided both specialist housing and employment support for recovering drug and alcohol misusers.

Our integrated approach ensures that range of needs are met without multiple referrals to other agencies, one that we think will required in the future particularly when services are funded by results.

In period when resources are limited, this approach will be cost effective in working with individuals with multiple needs who are consequently furthest away from the labour market.

In the North east 59% of jobs are directly dependent upon the public sector, which will force further job losses

DISC’s presence in the North-East means we can work in areas hit hard by public sector cuts, aiding those made redundant to find work and giving them the support and advice they need.