Key Partnerships and Highlights

The project was enriched by partnerships and contributions from several organisations and individuals:

• English Classes with the ETB:
  The local Education and Training Board (ETB) provided English classes twice a week for six weeks. Special thanks to Fiona Smith, who delivered the first half of the course, and Noel Carton, who led the second half.
• Insights from Public Speakers:

A series of expert guest speakers provided valuable insights:

• Kostas Kapantais from NASC (the Migrant and Refugee Rights Centre) shared crucial information about migrant rights. A special thank you to Fiona Hurley, CEO of NASC, for coordinating this session.
• Helen Roche from Citizens Information Services discussed the services available, with thanks to Yvonne Raynor for organising the session.
• Catherine Monaghan, a caseworker with expertise in entrepreneurship, delivered an inspiring talk on starting your own business.
• Joe Kelly from SIPTU educated clients on employer rights.
• Helen O’Connor from UCC shared information on adult and further education, followed by a tour of the UCC campus.
• Henry Sheehan from MABS provided critical financial advice and support.

Cultural and Networking Activities:

The project included a Cultural Tour of Cork, with visits to the English Market and Cork Library, where clients registered for library cards. Thanks to Margaret O’Sullivan and her team for making this tour possible.

The programme concluded with a Jobs Fair at the Metropole Hotel, which featured over 40 employers. We are delighted to share that one client has already secured a job from having attended, and several others are currently at the interview stage.

In-House Activities

In addition to external sessions, the project included in-house activities led by the dedicated caseworkers:

• Mock interview
• CV workshops
• Online job-searching sessions
• 
  

These activities were pivotal in preparing clients for their next steps, and we thank the team for their time and dedication.

A Special Acknowledgment

A heartfelt thanks to Niall Horgan, caseworker and UCC lecturer, whose leadership and commitment were instrumental to the project’s success. Niall’s connections with external speakers, dedication to client well-being, and unwavering support made an incredible difference.

Final Reflections

As the project concluded, the progress made over the 11 weeks was clear. One client secured a job, five others are at the interview stage, and all participants gained valuable skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

To mark the end of the programme, a graduation day was held with treats to celebrate the clients’ achievements. The event was a testament to how much the participants had grown and how impactful the project was.

This initiative has been a shining example of collaboration, support, and empowerment. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making the Living and Working in Ireland project a success!