Free support into better employment could help break low-pay cycle

According to Next Step Edinburgh, some hard-working in Edinburgh people are still in low-paid jobs

Having a job is no longer a guarantee of a comfortable life, according to Next Step Edinburgh, and some hard-working Edinburgh people are stuck in low-paid jobs or zero-hour contracts.

“They always say it is easier to get a job when you are in a job, but after completing a hard day’s work, job searching, completing application forms, or updating your CV can be intimidating and time-consuming,” says Lisa Rennie from the Next Step team. “Plus, some people just don’t know where to start, especially if they want to change careers or upskill.”

Scottish charity, Community Renewal has set up Next Step Edinburgh specifically to help support people into better employment. One of Next Step’s caseworkers Lisa Rennie explains more:

Next Step is also helping employers across Edinburgh recruit

“We are here to provide ongoing employment support for Edinburgh residents.

“A lot of people don’t know about funding available for the training courses. We can source that for our clients.

“We also support over-qualified EU citizens who live in Edinburgh but are trapped in these low-paid jobs. We find those clients jobs that are more suited to their skills or experience and look at ways we can transfer their qualifications to be used in the UK.”

Next Step is also helping employers across Edinburgh recruit.

“We get the first look at all the jobs as they become available, and we filter those and send our clients the ones that suit their skills,” says Lisa.

And for those who find writing applications, CVs or interviews difficult, then Lisa has a word of advice:

“So many people struggle when starting the application process, so you are not alone. But what we say is, why face it alone? We can help you every step of the way. We even do practice interviews with our clients.”

Next Step Edinburgh is funded by City of Edinburgh Council and the European Social Fund through Capital City Partnership, so that means no cost to anyone using the service, whether you are a job seeker or employer.

Lisa would encourage anyone contemplating contacting Next Step Edinburgh to make that move.

“We know everyone is different, so we tailor our support to you. We can even meet you outside office hours. Our team are really friendly, and they will stick with you for as long as it takes, so please do get in touch,” she said.

For more information on support available, visit the Next Step Edinburgh website, https://www.nextstepedinburgh.org, or call 0300 365 0025.