Front Of House Training with Tameside Women’s Centre

In 2019 10 women began a 12-week front of house training programme with staff from the Royal Exchange Theatre and Jigsaw Homes Engagement Team. Jigsaw Homes recruited the women through Tameside Women and Families Centre, the Jobcentre and other support services in the Dukinfield and Ashton area.

The project was led by a facilitator and front of house manager from the Royal Exchange and supported by a Tameside Ambassador and Jigsaw Homes tenant. The women learnt teamwork, communication, and customer service skills as well as increasing their confidence, self-esteem and wellbeing. Jigsaw Homes accredited the project through the delivery of a Teamwork Qualification. 7 women completed the project which saw the group operating the front of house for the Den in Stalybridge. 2 of the women plus the assistant have now gone on to gain employment as Technical ushers at the theatre.

“I’m proud of myself for how far I have come, and the journey has been amazing, I have loved every little bit of it.” Project Participant

“I wouldn’t leave Tameside; I was stuck in a rut. I actually visit Manchester now which I wouldn’t do because I had such a big fear of Manchester and terrorism and all the hype and because it is so busy and now I’ve even taken my family members in to Manchester…Even my husband has said “I’ve got my wife back”. I’m just so proud, and it just shows no matter what’s gone on in your life, no matter how down you’re feeling, get some help, leave the house, break the stigma – you can do it” Project Participant

“As part of Jigsaw Homes Neighbourhood Engagement Team supporting people back into education and training is a priority for us in line with meeting the aims and objectives of our Neighbourhood Plans. With high unemployment levels locally compared the national average, creating opportunities to increase employability and opportunities to learn is a must. We are always looking to build on our employment and skills provision by partnership working, skill sharing and peer learning. This project working with the Royal Exchange Theatre and the participants from the Tameside Women’s and Families Centre was a ‘resounding success’ and provided a pathway for job opportunities within the theatre and created an enabling positive learning environment for the women to succeed and enjoy together.” John McGlynn, Neighbourhood Engagement Officer – Jigsaw Homes Group