Helping to provide people with new skills for work

Helping to provide people with new skills for work

6 August 2025

THE Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership success story continues.

Designed to deliver targeted initiatives that support residents to secure employment, retrain or upskill, the Partnership also actively engages with employers to address current and future skills needed across the district.

In the last financial year, the Partnership supported 70 people into employment, helped 129 participants gain new qualifications, engaged with 566 employers and welcomed over 3,000 attendees to employment pathway events.

Funded by the Department for Communities, Labour Market Partnerships create targeted employment action plans for council areas, allowing for collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work. 

With a new set of work and training opportunities opening for applications in August 2025, previous participants have shared how the Partnership has helped transform their careers and lives.

Local council chairman, Philip Campbell, has congratulated all participants who have taken part in programmes.

“I’m delighted to hear how these opportunities have supported residents across our district to grow professionally and personally. With new initiatives launching in 2025–2026, I would strongly encourage anyone interested to take advantage of what’s on offer,” he added.

Fifty six people took part in the Get Work Ready Programme delivered by Clanrye Group, which provides personalised guidance into employment, education or training.

Castlewellan’s Niamh Burns, who previously worked part-time, used the programme to explore new job opportunities.

She successfully secured new employment through support to identify her skills, update her CV and improve her interview technique and increasing her working hours improved my salary.

She said she feels “confident and valued” in her new role.

The Enterprise Pathway Programme, delivered by Newry Mourne Enterprise Agency and Down Business Centre, offered up to three months of mentoring to 38 aspiring entrepreneurs. 

Newcastle’s Naomi Cox launched her business, Mourne Ladies Strength and Fitness, in the town with support from the programme and the Go Succeed initiative.

“I received expert mentoring in bookkeeping and marketing. The support was invaluable,” she added.

A number of sector-focused academies have also equipped participants with the skills needed to pursue careers in industries with strong employer demand.

Claire Harrison from Killyleagh completed the Transport Academy, delivered by Workforce Training, which provides HGV or PCV licence training. Reflecting on her experience.

“I applied after seeing an advert from the council,” she explained.

“The process was smooth and I received excellent support. After training in Belfast, I passed my test and secured employment as a gritter driver for NI Infrastructure. It was one of the most enjoyable jobs I’ve ever had and at 56, I learned new skills and made new friends. I would highly recommend HGV training.” 

Ben Savage, who is also from Killyleagh, participated in the Classroom Assistant Upskilling Academy and completed the Level 3 NCFE Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools.

“I found out about the programme through People 1st and I joined to gain further knowledge to help me pursue my career in the learning environment,” he explained.

“I acquired so much knowledge and experience and covered a range of units that really helped me gain insight into different techniques and strategies, particularly in supporting SEN and mainstream children.”

A total of 11 participants completed the Childminding Academy delivered by NICMA including Rebecca McKendry from Leitrim, a wife and mother of three.

“I received a leaflet about the Academy and instantly applied. Within a week, I was on a Zoom call to get started,” she said.

“The courses were informative, fun and the Academy provided training, policies, safety equipment and documents to keep children and families safe. I now feel fully ready to welcome my first child into my care and I’m beyond grateful to NICMA for their encouragement and support. If you get the opportunity to take part in a future Academy, don’t hesitate to say yes.”

A total of 86 residents in the Newry, Mourne and Down Council area completed LMP-sponsored upskilling courses delivered by Southern Regional College and South Eastern regional College. Among them was Norazean Muhamad-Brennan from Downpatrick, who completed the Upskilling for Growth programme and received a Level 5 CMI Award in Professional Coaching.

“I found out about the opportunity through a staff email at work. I was interested in acquiring new skills to improve myself professionally and the fact it was fully funded made it even more appealing.

“The course provided abundant information and I was impressed that even though it was only six weeks, I became a member of CMI and had access to great support as an SERC student. It has opened up a new part of my academic journey. I haven’t yet had the chance to use my coaching skills professionally, but I know it’s something I’ll carry with me for life.”

Residents interested in developing their skills or exploring new employment opportunities are encouraged to visit www.newrymournedown.org/skills-and-employability to find out more about upcoming Labour Market Partnership initiatives in 2025/2026.