04.12.03
Neighbourhood Pathways to Employment helps a dream come true in Camborne

Neighbourhood Pathways is a unique employment initiative created by Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change (CN4C ) and Jobcentre Plus and is funded by Jobcentre Plus and the European Social Fund. NPE goes out into the community to help people take their first steps towards the ultimate goal of training, volunteering and finding a job.

After 15 years without full-time employment, David Jewell from Camborne now has more than enough to keep him busy. He has opened his own shop, and business is booming in the run-up to Christmas. Collectorama sells antiques and collectables, with particular emphasis on film and film memorabilia.

However, just a few months ago, when David first met Robi Keetch, an adviser from Neighbourhood Pathways to Employment (NPE), he was claiming Job Seekers Allowance, and doing some voluntary work. Despite being a skilled electrician, David had not been able to find permanent work.

NPE was launched earlier this year to help people find their own pathway towards fulfilling employment, and David's is one of their first success stories. He had long dreamed of running a shop, and being able share his own passion for cinema and film with other enthusiasts. Suddenly everything came together.

A shop became vacant close to his home; he had a small legacy for some of the start-up costs, and an NPE allowance towards the fixtures and fittings. Robi also helped David write a business case to apply for funding to buy specialist Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) equipment. The law requires that all electrical equipment being resold to the public is PAT tested, and now David is able to use his electrical training to ensure that the goods he sells are safe to use.

David explained: "My interest in film stems from the time when I worked at Camborne's old Cameo Cinema – the one with the double seats in the balcony. I've been collecting cameras, projectors and cans of celluloid film ever since. My electrical training means I can restore and test the equipment myself. Now I'm getting involved with the Chamber of Commerce and Cornish Retailers. There are connections to be made everywhere, if you choose to get involved.”

Robi said: "The Pathways approach is all about helping people make their own choices. We can offer advice and guidance, and that little bit of funding - or access to training - which can make all the difference, and then continue to support them even when they start work. I still see David on a regular basis, but these days he's more likely to sell me a projector than ask for advice.”

Anyone who would like to know more, can call the team on Freefone 0800 328 4065.

Editor's notes:

Photo opportunity:
To arrange, please call David Jewell on 07881 713369
Collectorama, 79 Trellowarren Street, Camborne

Further information:
Barbara Smith, PR Adviser: 01736 786421/07801 947897

Jason Clark
Communications Adviser
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Tel: 01872 241379
Fax: 01872 241388
objectiveone@cornwall.gov.uk

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