Pathways to Employment

'Pathways to Employment' is a model of service delivery that aims to foster a culture of expectancy that homeless men and women can - and do - work successfully.

Launched in January 2008, the service takes residents on a journey, from initial health check through to appropriate training, and on to a successful job search and sustainable employment. A team of dedicated employment workers visit our hostels and projects to give personal support to clients on-site.

The programme provides advice, training and daily activities within St Mungo's hostels. Residents write their own Pathways to Employment plan with their key worker and receive regular support from a vocational guidance and coaching specialist. They help to break down the plan into manageable stages and provide encouragement and advice along the way.

Since its inception, Pathways to Employment has met our expectations of increased client take-up of personal development and life skills training, basic skills training, key skills training and job search opportunities - leading to improved mental health and enhanced personal development, as well as progression to community-based facilities such as colleges and job centres. In 2009, the success of the Pathways to Employment team led to the launch of another team to assist in providing a wider service in all our projects. We hope that 18 months into the programme:

  • 50% of residents will have clear vocational direction and aspiration
  • 30% of residents will be actively looking for work
  • 10% of residents will be in paid employment.

St Mungo's Work and Learning Manager Rod Cullen said:

"St Mungo's Pathways to Employment programme is changing the face of hostel accommodation by making on-site education and training a central part of our residents' experience.

"Under the pathways programme, residents sign on to an employment plan and are given guidance and training in areas ranging from basic skills through to specific fields such as IT, first aid and food hygiene. The support continues through to a job search, and into the first six months of employment.

"It's all about giving residents the skills and the confidence to find a job, keep a job and make a long-term break away from homelessness."

To read more about our Pathways to Employment programme click here