Another aim was to increase the number of our staff who have personal experiences of using homelessness services.
Successful applicants were offered a 12 month contract at a St Mungo's project. During this time they also undertook an NVQ2 in Health and Social Care whilst working in either a hostel or mental health project. As they neared the end of their contract, they were given support to apply for permanent jobs. Of the very first 12 successful applicants in 2008, nine went on to secure permanent roles within St Mungo's in the summer of 2009 and all nine are still working for us now.
In 2009 we took on 17 people to the newly named Apprenticeship Scheme including current St Mungo's clients, previous St Mungos clients and people who had accessed other homelessness agencies support services, or similar. At the end of their 12 month contract in September 2010, 13 apprentices went onto secure further work within St Mungo's.
2010 the new recruits
150 people applied for last year's Apprenticeship Scheme. 60 were shortlisted to attend an assessment day, and 15 were chosen as the final successful candidates.
Those 15 started work full time in one of St Mungo's projects or teams for a year, in October. They are being given dedicated support from St Mungo's Apprenticeship Coordinator and their new colleagues over their year on the scheme, and will be supported in applying for permanent jobs as they near the end of their contract. In addition, for the first time this year, they are being supported to complete the full Level 2 Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care.
"It's the first time I've done a job like this and I really love it. It's a fantastic opportunity for me to find a long term career in this kind of work but what I'm enjoying most is giving back to people, helping them with steps on their journey."
Serena, 28, became an apprentice project worker in July 2010. She spends half her week at the Wellbeing Centre and the other half at St Mungo's 54-bed hostel in Cromwell Road. Read Serena's story
"My hope for the future is to finish my apprenticeship and get a job working for St Mungo's. I'd love to work with the outreach team. I'm really enjoying my work and am looking forward to learning more."
Matthew, 44, is three months into a 12 month apprenticeship as a St Mungo's project worker at Gray's Inn Road hostel. Read Matthew's story
"The apprenticeship scheme saved my life."
Winston, 33, works as a St Mungo's project worker at Adamson Road supported housing project. Read Winston's story
Read other real life stories.