Ben Blackadder, a part-time Talent and Skills Officer, joined Mansfield District Council in August 2022 during the roll-out of the Government’s NewStart programme.
NewStart is a wage subsidy-based employment programme that aims to create 100 roles for unemployed people over the age of 25 with local employers across the county and city – including Mansfield district.
Ben, 34, previously worked in the financial sector for several years but that came to an end through redundancy. He said this moment spurred him to make a ‘now or never change of direction professionally’ in his life.
He enrolled at Nottingham Trent University on a foundation degree in Music Technology which he completed earlier this year. However, he then found himself in a position actively looking for employment and claiming Universal Credit.
Ben then heard about the NewStart opportunity through the Jobcentre work coach and applied for the position at Mansfield District Council.
He said: “I was looking for work after studying at university and wasn’t sure what role to go into next, and then I was made aware of this opportunity. I hadn’t worked in a professional office environment for a few years, so was slightly apprehensive.
“However it has been great for me to dust off and get back into the professional swing of things networking with colleagues.
“This scheme has helped me to understand what council’s do behind the scenes and also meet new people in the sector. Working on a research piece with colleagues about digital inequality was particularly useful in broadening my mind, and has given me a keen interest in doing more research going forward.”
During his placement, Ben decided it had given him the confidence to go back to university again and he is now enrolled to complete his full degree. He plans to focus on his recently signed record deal and also continue producing music for other artists in the electronic genre space.
Executive Mayor of Mansfield Andy Abrahams said this targeted programme was a great opportunity to reach adults to secure a work placement and build on their skill sets.
He added: “The council as an employer was facing its recruitment and retention challenges, and we saw this as a timely opportunity to participate in the work programme.
“Providing people with opportunities and skills is key in helping them go on to achieve great things in the district. It also demonstrates our commitment to creating an aspirational place to live, work and enjoy.
“I am proud to say that this is just one of the many educational opportunities we have within the council. We also guide our staff through apprenticeships, the Kickstart programme, the Career Ambassador Programme and more, all with support from our external partners.
“Now more than ever is a brilliant time to join us, with the regeneration projects now coming through the district, as you will have the chance to broaden your skills and knowledge from just that of your current job role.”
For more information about education and employment opportunities at Mansfield District Council, visit our vacancies page at www.Mansfield.gov.uk