Government Advisor Speaks at Foundation AGM

David Freud, author of the independent report ‘Reducing Dependency, Increasing Opportunity’ commissioned by the Department of Work and Pensions and published in March of this year, was guest speaker at Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation’s Annual General Meeting held at Leatherhead Court on Wednesday, 25 July.

Freud states in his report the Government’s aspiration of achieving 80% employment and if this extremely challenging target is to be tackled, let alone met, it would mean a totally fresh approach. Freud ’s blueprint for reform includes financial investment from commercial organisations and provision of training and mentoring services by charities with a successful track record of achieving results. Freud indicated that the Government, through the DWP report published on 18 th July entitled ‘In work, better off’, has stated its intention to act on the recommendations of his independent report.

Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation Training College has a proven track record having helped trainees with wide-ranging disabilities to re-enter the workplace for the past 70 years. It is looking forward to discussing this initiative with both investors and employers.

“It is currently estimated that around xxm disabled people are unemployed and dependent upon benefits. The standardised, short term training offered by the Government is not suitable for everyone. All need a structured training programme leading to commercially recognised qualifications in order to achieve sustainable employment. However, our trainees often have multi, complex disabilities and benefit from the nuturing environment of our residential centre where we can focus on the individual helping to build up confidence and self-esteem,” commented Cynthia Robinson, Chief Executive of the Foundation.”

Government Advisor Speaks at Foundation AGM …

The College offers a variety of courses including Building Property Maintenance, Carpentry & Joinery, Domestic Appliance Servicing, Media Techniques, Computer Aided Design, Office Administration, Hotel & Leisure Reception and Horticulture. The training is available to people with disabilities from across the UK who are unemployed and looking to gain full time open employment.

For further information, please contact Caroline Barratt, Public Relations Officer, Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation, Leatherhead Court, Woodlands Road, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 0BN. Email: caroline.barratt@qef.org.uk Tel: 01372 841129. Registered Charity No. 251051.