Here at Open Study College we’ve launched a new community initiative, designed to offer direct support to those who have been impacted by the effects of COVID; The Big Help Out.
The Big Help Out is our campaign to help businesses and people get back on their feet in the following ways:
- A career kick-start programme
- Full and part-funded scholarships
- A tech pack giveaway
- A support initiative for businesses and their employees
- Free mental health resources from Mind
The career kick-start scheme provides support for students taking the first step to get back into work. Every single student will receive a free CV critique, access to a downloadable employability skills guide packed with tips and advice to aid interview preparation, and free career guides to help people find out essential information about certain professions to determine whether it’s the right career path for them.
We have also partnered with recruitment specialist, SimkissGuy Recruitment, who offer job hunting support across a range of sectors to further help people back into work.
A full and part-funded scholarship programme has also been launched to enable those most in need to upskill themselves or give them the skills to change their career and secure future employment opportunities. In addition to this, we’re also running a competition to provide a free tech pack to support people in their studies.
Latest YouGov research suggests that more than a third of companies are planning to make redundancies in the next three months. For organisations in this position, we’re offering support for these businesses and those affected employees, whether that be through providing courses as part of enhanced redundancy packages or working with employees to help them with their next career steps.
In addition, to mark World Mental Health Day (10th October we’re supporting the mental health charity Mind, to offer free downloadable resources for anyone who might be looking for some extra support with their mental health during this time.
We’re also appealing to businesses in the UK to unite with them and get involved in The Big Help Out, and pledge their support where possible; whether they are actively recruiting and have vacancies to fill, or are able to sponsor or part-fund a training scholarship or online course. Companies in a position to help just need to email us at info@openstudycollege.com to get involved.
To find out more about the campaign, visit The Big Help Out page.
The Big Help Out has received nationwide coverage in the following publications:
The Sun News
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce
DLUXE Magazine
Bullivant Media
FE News
BBP Media