Unemployed adults across the Ashford district are set to gain renewed optimism about their future thanks to Upcycle Your Skills – a new programme delivered by CXK in partnership with Ashford Borough Council and SUEZ. Designed specifically to support long-term unemployed adults, the programme will support participants to build essential skills, boost confidence, access local job opportunities, and achieve an accredited Level 1 Award in Skills for Employment, Training and Personal Development. By combining tailored learning with direct links to employers, the programme aims to help participants take meaningful steps back into sustained employment and towards brighter futures.
Starting in January 2026, the programme will offer a blend of personalised and group support. Participants begin with a one-to-one goal-setting session with a dedicated CXK mentor to set personal aspirations. This is followed by a two-week programme of interactive group sessions focusing on essential skills such as team building and communication, CV writing, interview techniques and exploration of local job, learning and training opportunities.
Crucially, SUEZ will also provide participants with the direct opportunity to interview for live vacancies, offering a tangible pathway into employment.
Cllr Steve Campkin, Deputy Leader & Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Sustainability at Ashford Borough Council, said: “We are pleased to support the Upcycle Your Skills programme, which offers a valuable opportunity for those who have faced the challenges of long-term unemployment. By helping people build confidence, gain practical skills, and connect directly with local employers, this initiative is about creating opportunities and unlocking potential. It’s a fantastic example of partnership working to strengthen our community and support residents into sustainable employment.”
“We are proud to be supporting our local community, and the Ashford Upcycle programme. We have seen great success on other programmes we’ve collaborated on and the positive impact they can have and are really looking forward to working with the people involved.’’ Said James Goodwin, Contract General Manager for SUEZ.
Programme Manager at CXK, Lizzie Gregory, said; “Too many adults in Ashford are experiencing the challenges of long-term unemployment – including low confidence, limited recent work experience, and difficulty accessing opportunities. That’s why programmes like Upcycle Your Skills are so important.
By providing tailored one-to-one support, direct access to employers, and the chance to achieve an accredited Level 1 Award in Skills for Employment, Training and Personal Development, we will support participants build the confidence, skills and momentum they need to move forward. We’re proud to be delivering this programme in partnership with Ashford Borough Council and SUEZ recycling & recovery UK.”
If you’re an Ashford resident looking to build your skills, improve your confidence, or take your next step towards employment, the next ‘Upcycle Your Skills’ programme could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. To find out more, visit: https://www.cxk.org/services/upcycle-your-skills-ashford
