Homeless people prepare for work as Crisis Employment Week begins

Job-seekers with experience of homelessness will boost their work prospects by meeting with a range of businesses at employment fairs up and down the country. The events are part of a national Employment Week run by Crisis

Throughout the week attendees will have the chance to take part in workshops offering practical skills, mock interviews and advice on what employers are looking for before attending an employment fair where they can put their skills to the test with local businesses. 

Local employers will be taking part in the event, including recruitment agencies and leading organisations from the construction, catering and hospitality industries. Throughout the events they will be showcasing opportunities, meeting with potential applicants and learning more about how Crisis helps people leave homelessness behind for good through employment.

Jon Sparkes, chief executive of Crisis, said: “Being out of work is both a major cause and consequence of homelessness. We know 97% of homeless people want to work, but they need the right support - they cannot be forced or sanctioned into employment.

“Homelessness is a devastating experience that shatters the confidence and self-esteem. Alongside our year-round job coaching services, Employment Week is a great way for people to rebuild the skills and confidence they need to find employment. It is also an opportunity for businesses to meet high calibre candidates and learn how Crisis helps people on their journey out of homelessness.”

Crisis’ year-round employment services offer training and one-to-one coaching to ensure homeless people are ready for work. The specialist teams also work closely with businesses to understand their needs and match them to suitable candidates.

Last year the charity helped more than 730 people find paid roles across a range of different employment sectors, including catering, hospitality, construction, social care and retail. In addition, we helped 1,247 people secure qualifications, modules or certificates and helped 456 people progress on to further education or training.