Training programme boosts confidence

An unemployment programme in the South and East Cork area has seen over 200 people benefiting from training and upskilling, while 19 percent have established their own business.  

The South and East Cork Area Development (SECAD) is running their Time to Change programme designed to help those who lost employment in recent years to come to terms with this loss, and to move forward in a positive way.

“It has been hugely inspiring working with the Time to Change groups in Youghal, Cobh and Ballincollig,” said Toni McCaul of SECAD.

“The programme focuses on supporting the participants with information and advice about setting up a business or engaged in self-employment, looking for a new role or perhaps pursuing a training course or further education.”

Nineteen per cent of participants are now engaged in setting up their own business while over 30 per cent are now pursuing further education so that they can upskill and pursue new career opportunities on completion of these qualifications. 

The course was facilitated with Dr Fergus Heffernan, a leading psychologist in the area of stress management.

“The impact of this programme on participants is immeasurable,” said Dr Heffernan.

“It helps restore and rebuild them following the trauma and stress resulting from unemployment. Men and women suffer the effects differently, but this course helps them to deal with new challenges and gives them the tools and the confidence to move forward with their lives in a positive way.”

SECAD has worked closely with strategic partners in the delivery of this programme, including Cork VEC and the Department of Social Protection. If you would like to know more about Time to Change or any of the other SECAD supports available to job seekers and business start ups, contact SECAD at 021-4613432 or info@secad.ie.