Orkney employers invited to attend Employment Support Showcase

The Orkney Local Employability Partnership (OLEP) is hosting an Employment Support Showcase on Friday 14 November at The Old Library, Kirkwall, offering businesses the chance to learn about the wide range of support available to help them recruit and retain a diverse workforce.

The drop-in event, which runs from 9am to 3pm, will feature expert speakers and showcase funding opportunities, training programmes and practical resources designed to support employers across Orkney.

Attendees will learn about Employer Recruitment Incentives and available funding, Access to Work schemes and Disability Confident employer initiatives from the Department for Work and Pensions, and work experience pathways from Developing the Young Workforce (DYW).

Kerry Spence, OLEP Chair, said: "We want to ensure employers are aware of the significant support available to help them build and maintain strong, diverse workforces.

“This event brings together our partner organisations to provide practical advice, funding information and resources that can make a real difference to local businesses.

“Whether you're looking to recruit, need support with staff retention, or want to create a more inclusive workplace, there will be something here for you."

A marketplace in the afternoon will give employers the opportunity to speak directly with OLEP partners about specific support for their business.

The event is free to attend, with tea, coffee and breakfast rolls available from 9am, and lunch provided. Employers can drop in at any time during the day to suit their schedule.

For more information, get in touch at employability.support@orkney.gov.uk.

Schedule:

• 9:15am - Welcome & refreshments
• 9:30am - Orkney Local Employability Partnership overview
• 9:45am - Employer Recruitment Incentives - benefits and funding
• 10:15am - Developing the Young Workforce - Work experience programmes & pathways to employment
• 10:45am - Scottish Union for Supported Employment - Supported Employment & benefits for employers
• 11:15am - Break
• 11:30am - Department for Work and Pensions - Access to Work & Disability Confident schemes
• 12:00pm - Orkney Islands Council - In work support for parents
• 12:15pm - Lunch & marketplace
• 1:00pm - NHS Orkney & the Orkney Alcohol and Drugs Partnership - Mentally healthy workplaces
• 2:00pm - Feedback & evaluation
• 2:15pm - Marketplace - speak to partners about available support

The event runs from 9am to 3pm at The Old Library, Laing Street, Kirkwall on Friday 14th November, with refreshments and lunch provided throughout the day.