BCHA are celebrating helping over 200 people in Bournemouth to find employment through their Learning and Work department, Learning 744.

Learning 744 manages a number of initiatives which are all designed to advise and guide people around opportunities for work and learning, to help people move forward with their chosen direction. One such initiative is the Ignite programme which has recently celebrated a very successful first year.

The Ignite programme, which is funded by the Big Lottery Fund and has recently received a donation from J.P.Morgan, provides participants with a personalised plan, which sets out activities and opportunities to help build their self-esteem, motivation and skills.

Through a timetable of activities, including workshops and group sessions, participants learn essential skills which are transferable to the workplace. For example, computer workshops teach people how to use the Microsoft Office programmes such as Word and Excel and in other session's participants receive support to write their CV.

Sandra Hartnell, Head of People, Learning and Work, commented: "Every aspect of Learning 744 is tailored to develop participants long-term work prospects and get them off Job Seekers Allowance and in to employment.

"We are delighted with the results Learning 744 is achieving. It is estimated that through helping 200 people back in to work, BCHA have saved the government up to £11,300 a week on Jobs Seekers Allowance (JSA), amounting to a huge £587,000 a year."