Empower job design programme

Unlocking Potential: transform your business and someone’s life with the Empower Job Design Programme

Knowsley Council is looking for partner organisations to sign up to their innovative employment programme that is helping businesses improve productivity and supporting local residents into work.

The Empower Job Design Programme aims to provide opportunities for people with additional needs to enter the world of work. This is done through a flexible approach where each individual job designed position is tailored to both the young person’s and the business’s needs.

Partner businesses are supported by Knowsley Council’s Preparing for Adulthood (PfA) Employment Support Officer to create an Empower Job Designed position. This is done through the selection and combination of tasks from various roles within the organisation to create a job that is ideally suited for someone with additional support needs.

These positions are based on the needs of the business and can be modified to match the strengths and abilities of the individual that takes up the role.

All roles begin as work placements to assess business need and sustainability whilst giving the individual the chance to try out the role and make sure that it is right for them.

Whether it’s a few hours a week or a full-time position, the hours are flexible and can be scaled to suit business need.

The Benefits

Increased productivity

By combining specific tasks to these job-designed roles, existing staff can focus on more complex aspects of their job leading to a more efficient workforce.

Enhanced staff morale

Existing employees can see their company taking steps to be inclusive and supportive, which boosts overall morale. As certain tasks have been delegated, employees can concentrate on their core responsibilities, which can reduce stress and job-related fatigue.

Flexibility and customisation

Every job-designed role starts as a 6-week placement, allowing both the individual and the business to assess whether the role is the right fit. This trial period ensures that any adjustments can be made early on, ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved.

Support throughout the process

Successful candidates and the organisation will be supported by a dedicated job coach. The job coach works closely with both parties to ensure a smooth transition, address any perceived barriers, and provide ongoing support to help the individual succeed in their role.

Why It Matters

Offering job-designed positions is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. For individuals with additional support needs, finding meaningful employment can be challenging. By creating these roles, businesses can provide opportunities for people who might otherwise be overlooked, empowering them to contribute their skills and talents to the workforce.

Richard's story

Richard has become an indispensable member of staff at Ravenscroft Primary School, having secured his role through the Empower Job design programme. Read about Richard's story here.

Daryl's story

Daryl secured one of the first job carved roles as a Grounds Maintenance Assistant at Eastcroft Park Primary School, a role which has seen him develop new passions and skills. Read about Daryl's story here.

Tom’s journey

Tom was one of the successful candidates when the programme was first set up and has worked as Breakfast Club and Welfare Assistant at St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School in Kirkby since November 2019. You can read Tom's story here.

Take the Next Step

By embracing job-designed positions, you can tap into a hidden pool of talent, enhance productivity, and adopt a more inclusive and positive workplace culture. It’s a small step that can lead to significant rewards.

The below form is for businesses to complete - please do not enter personal information

To get involved, complete our Business Employer Expression of Interest form here.

Or contact PfA Employment Supported Employment Officer;

Email: info.supportedemployment@knowsley.gov.uk

Telephone: 0151 443 3054

Watch a short video clip about the programme

Natalie, Headteacher at Alt Bridge School

At Alt Bridge, we are proud to have three adults working with us through the Empower Job Design programme and we couldn’t imagine our team without them! Each of these individuals contributes immensely to our community through their hard work, diligence, reliability, and consistency.

They require nothing more than what every employee deserves: clear direction and communication, genuine support, and compassion. In the right environment, one that is inclusive and supportive, they not only thrive but also bring unique strengths and perspectives that enrich our workplace.

Employing individuals through the Empower Job Design programme offers clear benefits to any forward-thinking organisation. Beyond the practical advantages, it also fulfils an important moral and social responsibility that we hold, to break down barriers and ensure that everyone has access to meaningful, paid employment. It is our collective duty to help remove those barriers and create workplaces where everyone can succeed.

Portrait photograph of headteacher at Alt Bridge School
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