Job seekers learn the trade in Health with prospects for paid employment

The municipality of Kerkrade and MeanderGroep Zuid-Limburg are teaming up to guide people with a Social assistance benefit into paid employment more quickly and sustainably. In a joint trial, MeanderGroep is making twenty work places available to job-seekers through the municipality. The first candidates have since moved on to a regular job.

Candidates first complete an apprenticeship program through the Development Center and, upon successful completion, receive a one-year contract with the possibility of renewal. The positions are those of domestic help and care assistant. A job coach provides guidance during the course and remains in the candidate's sight even after he or she has moved on to a regular job within Meander in order to increase his or her sustainable employability.

With this cooperation, both parties not only want to address the tightness in the labor market, but also offer people with a greater need for guidance more opportunities for a sustainable workplace. It is unique for the municipality to allow people with Social assistance benefit benefits to move directly into paid employment in this way. The Health apprenticeship line at the Elisabeth Stift similarly guides employees toward a job in Health.