A relationship- based approach to tackling unemployment in disadvantaged communities

Hodgkins, Angela ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2464-7848 and Solvason, Carla ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3072-0079 (2025) A relationship- based approach to tackling unemployment in disadvantaged communities. International Journal of Social Pedagogy. pp. 1-34. ISSN 2051-5804 (In Press)

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Abstract

As social pedagogues we have a keen interest in initiatives that benefit groups that are often overlooked, or groups suffering from multiple disadvantages. The Wellbeing Jobs Club is one such initiative. Set up by a community trust this club takes a holistic approach to supporting those trapped within the negative cycle of unemployment, recognising the impacts that this can have upon mental health and overall wellbeing. Our evaluation of the service collected survey and interview data from both club participants and job coaches. Our key findings included that: all participants were free to attend under their own volition and were always met with unconditional positive regard. This service provided a source of care and support with everyday challenges that caused attendees high anxiety and unique needs of a very diverse group were catered for. This club was clearly a lifeline to some of the most vulnerable in our communities and we call for increased funding for this, and similar initiatives.

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