9 June 2009 – Jim Knight – employers recognised for getting unemployed people back into work

A number of employers received special recognition by the Government today for the good work they are doing in getting unemployed people back to work.

Debenhams and Tulip Fresh Meats were just two of the employers announced as winners of a national Local Employment Partnership Award.

The awards also recognised individuals, like Jason Churchill from Asda’s Import Centre in Middlesborough whose lives were transformed through Local Employment Partnerships.

Speaking at the event, Employment Minister Jim Knight said:

 “The Local Employment Partnership Awards recognise employers who have shown great commitment to their local community by going the extra mile to help jobseekers back into work.

“They also celebrate the huge achievements of employees whose lives have changed for the better because of Local Employment Partnerships.”

The Awards, which were held in London this afternoon, were presented by former ‘Apprentice’ winner Tim Campbell.

Tim Campbell said:

"I am proud to be presenting the national Local Employment Partnership Awards. They recognise that by working in partnership with Jobcentre Plus, local employers can make sure people are given a fair chance to realise their potential.”

The Awards follow similar events in the eleven Jobcentre Plus regions and countries. Winners of each of the regional events were automatically entered for the National Local Employer Partnership Awards. A judging panel, whose members included Matthew Nicholas, Jobcentre Plus’ Director of Employer and Stakeholders, Frances O’Grady, the TUC’s Deputy General Secretary, David Frost, the Director General of the British Chamber of Commerce and Stephanie Bird, HR Director for CIPD chose winners in six categories, such as ‘recruitment innovation’ and ‘unlocking skills’.

Notes to Editors

For more information contact DWP Press Office:
020 3267 5141

The winners in the different categories are:

Recruitment Innovation Award (Employer Award)
Winner: Debenhams, North Wales (Wales)

Partnership Works Award (Partnership Award)
Winner: Work Highcross Partnership (East Midlands)

Work Skills Award (Employee Individual Award)
Winner: Jason Churchill from Asda Import Centre Middlesbrough (North East)

Commitment to Diversity Award (Employer Award)
Winner: Wiltan Ltd (Wales)

Unlocking Talent Award (Employer Award)
Winner: Tulip Fresh Meats (South West)

Getting back to Work Award (Employee Award)
Winner: Lynn McNicol from Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust (North West)

For further information about the awards visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/lep

Media Enquiries: 0203 267 5141

Out of hours: 07659 108 883

Website: www.dwp.gov.uk