JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN WEYBURN

Released on June 3, 2002

A new program that is helping to accelerate the record decline in

Saskatchewan's welfare caseloads is now available in Weyburn.



"The Jobs First program helps people access local job opportunities as a

first choice before becoming involved in the welfare system," Social

Services Minister Glenn Hagel said. "The program is supported by using the

resources of Canada-Saskatchewan Career and Employment Centres across the

province."



Jobs First involves group sessions where participants are made aware of

local job opportunities. From these, they can select employment

opportunities that match their skill level and experience. Session

facilitators also provide instruction in job search skills and help

participants prepare for and attend interviews.



"During pilot projects in Regina and Yorkton, 30 to 45 per cent of

participants in Jobs First went to work instead of welfare," Hagel

said. "Based on this success, we are now making Jobs First available to

the rest of the province."



Jobs First is the newest component of Saskatchewan's internationally

recognized Building Independence strategy. Since its introduction in 1997,

Building Independence has helped 6,000 families, including 13,000 children,

leave welfare.



"Phase 1 of Building Independence is successful because it removes the

barriers to the work force that prevent people from leaving welfare," Hagel

said. "This second phase of Building Independence is focusing on renewing

the way welfare is delivered and strengthening supports for low income

people outside of the welfare system."



This second phase of Building Independence also includes:



Using a call centre as the first point of access for new

applicants. Call centre staff are able to direct new applicants to

other programs that may allow the applicant to remain independent.



First Step orientation sessions provide general information to new

clients about other community resources and programs, as well as

information on an individual's rights and responsibilities while

receiving assistance.



Transition Planning is a new tool for social workers that builds on

the client's strengths and addresses barriers that prevent

participation in the labour force.



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For more information, contact:



Doug Wakabayashi

Saskatchewan Social Services

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-8689

Cell: (306) 536-5481