Delivered in partnership with Department for Work and Pensions
At the Apollo project, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to build a fulfilling and sustainable career. That’s why we’re proud to introduce the Apollo Care into Work Programme, a comprehensive five-week sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) delivered in partnership with Department for Work and Pensions and Centre 81, Great Yarmouth.
This programme is designed specifically for those on Universal Credit and young people aged 18 to 25 who are currently not in education, employment or training (NEET), this programme provides the skills, support, confidence and practical experience needed to secure rewarding employment within the Health and Social Care sector.
Creating Opportunities and Building Futures
The Health and Social Care sector continues to offer a wide range of career opportunities, but for many people, gaining the qualifications, experience and confidence needed to take the first step can be a challenge.
The Apollo Care into Work Programme has been designed to remove those barriers by providing a structured pathway into employment through accredited training, practical work experience, specialist industry knowledge and personalised one-to-one support.
Participants remain supported throughout every stage of the programme, with continued access to Universal Credit and guidance from both their DWP Work Coach and a dedicated Apollo Job Coach.
What Does the Programme Include?
Over five weeks, participants will complete a carefully designed portfolio that combines classroom-based learning, work experience and employment preparation.
Week 1: Care Certificate Training
The programme begins with four days of Care Certificate training, providing participants with the essential foundations required to work within the Health and Social Care Sector.
Training includes the following:
- Understanding your role
- Duty of care
- Safeguarding adults
- Equality, diversity and inclusion
- Person-centered care
- Communication skills
- Infection prevention and control
- Health and safety awareness
- Privacy and dignity
By the end of the week, participants will have developed an understanding of industry standards, workplace expectations and the professional responsibilities involved in delivering high-quality care.
Weeks 2 and 3: Real World Experience at Centre 81
Practical experience is a vital part of preparing for employment.
Participants will undertake up to 25 hours of work experience at Centre 81 in Great Yarmouth, giving them the opportunity to apply their learning in a real working environment.
During placements, participants may:
- Support community activities and events
- Assist with customer service and reception duties
- Engage with service users and visitors
- Gain insight into community care services
- Develop communication, teamwork and organisational skills
As confidence grows, participants will be encouraged to work more independently while continuing to receive guidance and support from experienced staff.
This valuable workplace experience also provides evidence that can strengthen CVs and future job applications.
Week 4: Specialist Health and Social Care Training
To help participants develop a broader understanding of care provision, the programme includes specialist awareness training.
Autism Awareness
Participants will explore:
- Autism spectrum conditions
- Communication techniques
- Sensory awareness
- Inclusive support approaches
Dementia Awareness
Participants will learn about:
- Different types of dementia
- The impact dementia can have on individuals and families
- Person-centred support methods
- Effective communication strategies
- This specialist knowledge helps participants develop a deeper understanding of diverse care needs and strengthens their suitability for a wider range of care roles
This specialist knowledge helps participants develop a deeper understanding of diverse care needs and strengthens their suitability for a wider range of care roles.
Week 5: Employment and Recruitment Support
The final week focuses on helping participants secure employment opportunities
Workshops include:
- CV creation or enhancement
- Job searching and techniques
- Applications with support
- Interview preperation
- Mock interviews
- Professional workplace behaviour
- Understanding employer expectations
Participants will then be supported to apply for suitable vacancies with local employers.
Potential career opportunities include:
- Care Assistant
- Support Worker
- Community Support Worker
- Residential Care Worker
- Healthcare Support Worker
By the end of the programme, participants will be interview-ready, confident and equipped with the practical tools needed to enter employment!
Supporting Long-Term Career Development
The Apollo Care into Work Programme has been developed with long-term progression in mind.
Participants who secure employment will continue to recieve support from Apollo as they transition into work and develop their careers.
This ongoing support may include:
- In-work mentoring
- Employer liaison
- Career coaching
- Progression planning
- Access to further learning opportunities
Participants may also have the opportunity to progress onto a Level 2 Adult Care qualification, enabling them to continue developing their knowledge, skills and career prospects within the sector.
The aim is not simply to support individuals into employment, but to create sustainable careers with progression opportunities and long-term growth.
Programme Benefits
During and after the programme, participants will receive:
- FREE sector-specific training
- Care Certificate learning
- Autism Awareness training
- Dementia Awareness
- Up to 25 hours of practical work experience
- Dedicated 1-1 support from their Job Coach
- A professional CV and cover letter for applications
- Interview skills training and confidence boosting
- Direct access to local employers
- Continued Universal Credit support (subject to claimant commitments)
- Ongoing support after employment
- Progression opportunities into qualifications and long-term careers
Get in Touch!
Think this might be for you or have any questions? Please get in touch at apollo@eastcoast.ac.uk
