Preparing for re-entry into the workforce

TRAINING: Masterton dad Paul Campbell, 36, is learning how to do a storeman's job at Wairarapa Resource Centre as he prepares for employment. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

Now his kids are growing up, Paul Campbell is hopeful of finding employment.

After nearly a decade out of work looking after his children, the Masterton 36-year-old is training at Wairarapa Resource Centre as he prepares himself to look for work.

He loads and unloads the recycling truck and prepares stock for the shop.

"I'm just gaining confidence so I can find work."

Mr Campbell said the recycling store was providing him the skills to gain work.

"I've been out of work for quite some time and want to get back into the work force ... coming here I get to do the deliveries and pick ups. I'm slowly gaining confidence and a good work ethic. I have to be on time and I can't let them down.

"It's like having a normal job. You have to be punctual and show up on time. They rely on you."

He really loves volunteering at the centre too.

"I like working with the people here."

He hopes to gain work in retail or as a storeman/packer in a warehouse.

"I just want to work so I can put food on the table for my kids."

Wairarapa Resource Centre co-ordinator/manager Trudie Jones said Mr Campbell was in training but it won't be long before he'd be ready for interviews.

Meanwhile, the centre, which has been running for about a year, has helped train a dozen people who have since gained employment.

They have 20 volunteers working and training at the centre each week and more ready to jump on board in the hope of gaining experience and a referral for work, Mrs Jones said.

"We've got a waiting list of 10 people wanting to come in. It's great. Three of our guys had callbacks for interviews for work."

Profiling volunteers through the Times-Age had been extremely beneficial for their trainees, she said.

"We've had our first employer ring interested in taking on some of our guys ... we now have 12 people in paid employment."

If you are interested in training for a job or are an employer looking for staff, call Trudie on (06) 377 2090.