December 2011

Lisburn City Council is pleased to announce that recruitment will commence shortly for the next round of the popular Hospitality and Retail Training for Employment (HARTE) programme, which is open to unemployed individuals in both Lisburn and Belfast.

The programme is jointly funded by Lisburn City Council, Belfast City Council and the European Social Fund; and is supported by the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL).

Launched in January 2009, by the funding organisations, the HARTE programme is designed to provide long–term unemployed individuals with the opportunity to gain personal development and vocational training qualifications. These qualifications and skills will then enable them to access job opportunities in the hospitality, retail and related employment sectors.

Alderman Jim Dillon, Chairman of the Council’s Economic Development Committee, said: “Lisburn City Council welcomes the support which this successful initiative will be offering throughout the City of Lisburn, in particular to the long–term unemployed and most disadvantaged in our local communities. There are many exciting opportunities in both the hospitality and retail sectors locally, and this programme will ensure that local residents are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure they are best placed to access these.”

Holly, a mum of 3, was a participant in the HARTE programme last year. She said: “The programme gave me qualifications, skills and confidence. Without the programme I wouldn’t be in the job I am in now.” 1/2 Over 90 participants of the last HARTE programme gained employment in a wide variety of hospitality and retail positions. Over 190 participants gained recognised qualifications and completed personal development courses.

Mr Martin Magennis, Director at Time Associates, added: “The HARTE programme is an excellent initiative for offering professional support and skills training to those seeking employment in the hospitality and retail sectors. I am delighted that previous graduates have secured employment despite the difficult competition for jobs in the current economic climate and I wish future participants every success on the programme.”

To find out more about HARTE, contact GEMS NI on freephone 0800 731 0641 or email harte@gemsni.org.uk