County Voice

Working Denbighshire

Upcoming Events

Working Denbighshire is offering free, monthly events designed to support residents aged 16 and over in enhancing their skills, improving their wellbeing, and moving closer to employment.

These events provide a welcoming environment to learn new things, connect with others, and grow your confidence.

Whether you want to explore new job opportunities, develop your professional skills, or simply boost your personal wellbeing, our events are here to help. Don’t miss this chance to invest in your future—sign up today!

For more information and to book your spot, visit our social media pages @WorkingDenbighshire and @SirDdinbychynGweithio.

Upcoming Training and Work Placements

Another successful Jobs Fair held by Working Denbighshire

On 25 September, more than 400 people attended Working Denbighshire’s Jobs fair at the Pavilion Theatre in Rhyl.

Over 50 businesses exhibited, including nationally recognised names such Clwyd Alyn, North Wales Fire & Rescue, Asda, Alpine Travel, Gamlins Law and Balfour Beatty.

The free event saw an opportunity for unemployed people, and those looking for a career change, to gain access to local and employment options, as well as hear about the various training and apprenticeships opportunities that are open for applications.

The team organised a quiet hour during the event for those who may appreciate a quieter atmosphere.

The Council's Working Denbighshire service aims to coordinate support that helps people into work by removing barriers. Working with local businesses and organisations, the Working Denbighshire programme is committed to supporting people who live in Denbighshire to get into the world of work and/or further their skills with free training.

Melanie Evans, Principal Manager, Strategic Employment, said: “We are thrilled with another great turnout at our latest Jobs Fair. It is a testament to the hard work of our team and the commitment of local services and businesses to support our community.

“Events like these not only connect job seekers with potential employers but also empower individuals to take the next step in their careers."

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation added: “The success of the Jobs Fair highlights the importance of collaboration between local organisations and the Council. By providing a platform for high quality training and employment opportunities, we are helping to break down barriers and create a brighter future for the residents of Denbighshire."

To keep up to date with events and find out more about Working Denbighshire visit the website.

Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.

Working Denbighshire has received £3,529,632 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Check out our video from the event! https://youtu.be/qs5PPrWpDS0

Andrew’s Journey to Independence with the Help of Working Denbighshire

Andrew, a Denbighshire resident, has achieved a life-changing milestone, moving from volunteering to paid employment, thanks to his determination and the support of Working Denbighshire.

His story shines a light on how employability services can help people rebuild their lives after facing major challenges.

In 2021, Andrew suffered a brain injury in a car accident, leaving him reliant on his family.

In March 2023, they sought help from Working Denbighshire, where Andrew was matched with Mentor Jen, who developed a personalised plan to support his journey to independence.

Andrew’s plan focused on securing a volunteering role as a step towards paid employment. It included:

  • Finding a volunteering role suited to his abilities
  • Improving communication and confidence
  • Crafting a tailored CV
  • Supporting his wellbeing and independence

With support from an employment coordinator, Jen tracked Andrew’s progress, to ensure he stayed on track.

By May 2023, Andrew started volunteering at Plas Newydd in Llangollen, gradually building his confidence and even taking the bus independently for the first time since his accident. By August, he took on new challenges, including volunteering at the Llangollen Eisteddfod, which boosted his independence and made his family proud.

In April 2024, Andrew expanded his volunteering experience to Llangollen Railway, where he developed new skills. By August, his hard work paid off, and he secured a paid role through the Work Start Scheme, starting in September.

Andrew’s journey from relying on family support to securing employment highlights the difference Working Denbighshire’s tailored approach can make.

Working Denbighshire Participant, Andrew, said: "My family and I had fantastic support from Working Denbighshire, especially from Jen, who was always just a phone call away.

“Their support took a huge weight off my wife's shoulders, and at one point, I thought returning to work would be impossible but with their help, I’ve now secured paid employment."

Andrew’s journey is a testament to his resilience and the power of employability services to transform lives.

Jen, Working Denbighshire Employment & Skills Mentor said: "I'm incredibly proud of all that Andrew has accomplished. He and his wife appreciated having a reliable point of contact for support, and I feel honoured to have been part of his journey."

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said: “Andrew’s story highlights how important it is to provide people with the right support at the right time.

“His success is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when someone’s determination is matched with targeted guidance. We’re so proud of everything he has achieved.”

Andrew’s story shows just how life-changing employability services can be, helping individuals regain their independence and confidence.

For more information about Working Denbighshire and the support it offers, visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/jobs-and-employees/working-denbighshire/working-denbighshire.aspx

Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.

Working Denbighshire is part funded by UK Government.

Join Us for a Powerful Event to 'Tackle Mental Health' at Prestatyn Football Club this November!

In celebration of World Mental Health Day, Working Denbighshire is excited to announce the return of their "Tackling Mental Health" event!

Following the success of the August event in Denbigh, this impactful initiative will take place at Prestatyn Football Club in mid-November.

Working Denbighshire, in partnership with Prestatyn Town Council, will host this free event focused on tackling mental health and promoting wellbeing on Wednesday, 13th November, from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

The event will feature a variety of engaging Rugby-themed activities designed to boost your mood while providing valuable tips on mental health and wellbeing.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“We are proud to support this important initiative, bringing our community together to tackle mental health and promote wellbeing.

By working together with Prestatyn Town Council, we can create a positive environment where residents feel empowered to take steps towards promoting their mental health and wellbeing.”

Anyone living in Denbighshire aged 16 and over, is welcome to attend the event to improve their mental health and access valuable resources for themselves or those close to them.

Melanie Evans,  principal manager and strategic lead for Working Denbighshire said:

“We know how challenging it can be to take that first step toward seeking support, and we want this event to be a place where individuals feel comfortable doing just that.

By combining engaging activities with promoting wellbeing, we aim to provide local residents with tools they can use long after the event ends. It’s a great opportunity for the community to come together, connect, and support each other.”

To secure your place, text 07795 051793 or email barod@denbighshire.gov.uk today.

Successful Summer Transition Programme Supports Denbighshire’s Year 11 Leavers

Working Denbighshire, in collaboration with Denbighshire Youth Services, Education Services and the Youth Engagement and Progression Framework, launched a Summer Transition Programme earlier this year to support Year 11 leavers moving into further education.

This initiative provided targeted guidance and essential resources to young people facing challenges such as bullying, mental health struggles, and disengagement from schooling.

The programme enrolled 26 participants identified as being at risk of not progressing due to personal and financial barriers. Weekly sessions focused on helping them transition smoothly into their next step by offering mental health support, transition planning, and guidance on securing essential items like college kits and opening bank accounts.

Working Denbighshire’s, Well-being team (Barod) played a critical role in addressing financial barriers, ensuring that students had everything they needed for their courses. Of the 26 participants, 23 received financial aid for course materials, while 21 were granted laptops and headphones to support their studies as a result of a collaboration with Cwmpas.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“I’m delighted to see the positive impact the Summer Transition Programme has had on our young people. Ensuring they have the right support to transition smoothly into further education is essential, especially for those facing barriers.

This initiative is a prime example of how collaborative working can create real, lasting change in our community.

I’m incredibly proud of everyone involved and wish all participants continued success in their education and future careers.”

Melanie Evans, Principal Strategic Employment Manager for Denbighshire County Council said:

“I am extremely proud of the support of the what Council’s Working Denbighshire service has been able to provide.

Partnership working is the corner stone of our approach and these remarkable results demonstrate how powerful collaboration is for the benefit of our young people. 

The impact of this support will have a legacy for years to come not just for the individuals supported but also their friends and family given the knowledge and experience that they will be sharing.

Wishing them all the best in their future education, I hope they make the most of what is on offer to them now and when they complete their studies, our door is always open to help them progress into the careers of their dreams!”

One of the programme’s highlights was the sense of community and support built among the young people. Many participants had been isolated and out of school for long periods, but the sessions helped them form friendships and build confidence in a safe and supportive space.

The success of the programme is reflected in the participants' commitment to further education. An impressive 35% of students achieved 100% attendance, and 78% attendance above 80%, showing how vital this summer support was in keeping them engaged and motivated.

Sian Morgan, Engagement and Progression Manager, said:

“The Summer Transition Programme for our Year 11 leavers has been a great success. It’s fantastic to see the partnership between Education Services, Youth Services, and Barod working to support learners on their journey into further education. We’re already looking forward to building on this success next year with earlier intervention and longer transition support.”

This programme is a powerful model for future efforts aimed at supporting vulnerable young people in continuing their education.

Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.

Working Denbighshire has received £3,529,632 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Working Denbighshire is part funded by UK government.

Working Denbighshire Videos

Check out these videos, made by the Working Denbighshire team and participants who are developing their skills to be able to access the TV and Film industry. 

The videos bring to life the ambition we have in the service to work with people and businesses across the County to help them thrive.   

ONE TO ONE SUPPORT

Working Denbighshire provides free One to One support to anyone in Denbighshire that is looking to get into employment. Apply today by visiting www.working.denbighshire.gov.uk/

PROJECT BAROD (WELLBEING) SUPPORT

Working Denbighshire provides free wellbeing to people in Denbighshire. Fill out our contact form if you would benefit from this support.

FULLY FUNDED TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES IN DENBIGHSHIRE

Working Denbighshire provides free Training to people in Denbighshire. Fill out our contact form, to sign up to one of our courses.

WORK START PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Working Denbighshire provides placement opportunities for people living in Denbighshire. Fill out our contact form to get more details about the opportunities available.

DAMIEN'S EXPERIENCE WITH WORKING DENBIGHSHIRE

Damien received support from Working Denbighshire, helping him get a job as a Trainee Mechanic! Working Denbighshire can offer a variety of personalised support to anyone living in the County struggling to get into employment of their choice. To sign up for support visit our website.

Taylorfitch. Bringing Newsletters to life