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Gateway opens 'The Zone'

Gateway opens 'The Zone'

Rushanara Ali, MP for Bethnal Green and Bow attended the launch of ‘The Zone’ our new training room to celebrate the success stories of the Support to Employment Programme (STEP) which helps local unemployed residents into work and training.

Since April 2014, Gateway STEP has supported 76 people; 23 of which have secured employment; 18 have accessed education, work experience and volunteering opportunities; and 8 residents have successfully completed an employability qualification with City and Guilds. These jobs and training opportunities are a combination of those created by local employers and those created via Gateway’s partner contractors and proactive contacts.

Neda Haghshenas, Employability and Engagement Co-ordinator at Gateway, said: “We are very proud of STEP and are driving forward the campaign across Tower Hamlets Borough. We recognise that many residents and local people want to be financially independent and are here to provide free advice, support and guidance to help them return to work.”

Gateway resident, Sharif Khan recently secured full-time employment with ERS Medical Group as an Ambulance Care Assistant with the help of STEP. Sharif said: “I cannot praise programme enough - I am now working for an organisation that offers structured training and progression opportunities and couldn’t be happier! Thank you for everything from the bottom of my heart.”

Now that The Zone has opened, which will be the base for future STEP training, Gateway STEP can go from strength to strength.