Access to Industry - Access Data (Access To Industry)

Access Data supports participants in gaining or improving knowledge and skills related to the worlds of IT & data, preparing them for the demands of the contemporary job market. The project is made both for those with no previous interest in data, as well as those who already possess some knowledge and skills. Access Data is first and foremost an employability service that aims to help clients to overcome any challenges they might be facing to move into employment.

The programme offers one-to-one casework support so that participants can establish a positive, consistent relationship with one worker. Participants work through personal development action plans with their caseworkers. Progress is regularly reviewed to ensure that they are getting the maximum benefit. All support and training are delivered in a safe and supportive environment.

Our current offer:

• 1:1 tailored caseworker support on every step of the way towards employment
• A range of SQA-accredited IT/Data courses
• Support into and during other suitable courses and training opportunities
• Support into volunteering opportunities, including in-house
• Employability skills training

A person is eligible for our programme if they:

1. Are at least 20 years old
2. Live in Edinburgh (EH1 to EH17 & EH28 to EH30) & are unemployed
3. Want to move into education, training or employment that is related to IT or data
4. Belong to at least one of the groups listed below:

• they are from a minority ethnic background
• they are over 50 years old
• they experience long-term health issues, including mental health
• families that have: a lone parent, a disabled adult or child; a mother aged under 25; a child under one; 3 or more children

Additionally, the right to work in the UK is required to be able to participate in the programme.

Although Access Data is not time limited, as we understand that our participants might face complex challenges and we provide support around their changing needs, we can only work with clients who are aiming to rejoin the job market within a maximum of 2 years of joining our project. To maximise the benefits of the programme, our clients are expected to engage with us on a regular basis.

Our programme is delivered in a blended model - face-to-face and remotely (via phone and online). Our courses are delivered at Access to Industry’s Community College based at 156 Cowgate in Edinburgh.