The Next Chapter Programme, delivered by Rotherham United Community Trust’s Economy department, has successfully combined employability support with wellbeing activities to help adults aged 50+ overcome barriers to employment and take positive steps toward their future.
Designed for individuals aged over 50 who are currently receiving Universal Credit, the programme focused on improving both physical and mental wellbeing while helping participants develop key employability skills and rebuild confidence to support a return to work.
Delivered over 10 weeks, each session included:
- A 2-hour employability workshop
- A 45-minute structured fitness session
The workshops were interactive, practical, and designed to gently encourage participants to step outside their comfort zones in a supportive environment. Topics covered included:
- CV development and updates
- Effective job search techniques
- Mock interviews and interview preparation
- Confidence building and mindset development
- Developing an “I can” attitude to overcome perceived barriers
A key element of the programme was the creation of a safe and non-judgemental environment where participants could share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. As the weeks progressed, strong friendships developed within the group, creating a supportive peer network that played a vital role in building confidence and resilience.
Each session concluded with a 45-minute fitness activity, reinforcing the connection between physical wellbeing, mental health, and employability. Participants reported feeling more energised, motivated, and positive as the programme progressed.
The programme delivered several strong outcomes:
- 3 participants progressed into employment, including 2 who were long-term unemployed
- 2 participants enrolled in a Basic IT course, helping them build digital confidence and overcome fears around using computers
- 1 participant progressed onto the “Kick Off Your Career” programme, continuing to build confidence before moving fully into Back to Work support
- The remaining 6 participants reported:
- Increased confidence when job searching
- Improved interview skills
- A more positive and proactive mindset
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive! One participant commented:
I learnt more from this programme than any other course – I just wish it had been longer.
Another added:
It helped change my mindset.
One participant who successfully returned to employment shared how the programme helped them regain confidence:
Without these sessions, I wouldn’t have had the courage to apply for the job I previously left and attend the interview, that courage led to me getting the job.
Feedback from colleagues at the Jobcentre also highlighted the importance of targeted support for older jobseekers.
As the 50+ Champion across South Yorkshire, one Jobcentre representative explained:
Many people aged 50 and over face challenges such as health issues, outdated skills, low confidence, limited employability skills, and reduced digital capability.
This programme was designed to address these barriers by combining employability support with a strong focus on health and wellbeing. The aim is to positively influence employment outcomes, reduce isolation, and help prevent long-term unemployment and pension poverty later in life.
They also praised the delivery of the programme and the impact it had on participants:
It has been amazing to see customers grow in confidence, build relationships with one another, and support each other throughout the programme. The feedback received by work coaches shows how much participants valued the programme being delivered at RUFC and the sense of community support it provided.
The Next Chapter Programme has created a strong foundation for continued progression. By addressing both the practical and emotional barriers to employment, participants not only gained job-search skills but also strengthened their confidence, resilience, and belief in their own abilities.
With measurable employment outcomes and clear improvements in confidence and motivation, the programme has demonstrated the powerful impact that community-based, holistic employability support can have for people taking the next step in their working lives.
To find out more or how you can get involved, email economy@ruct.co.uk.
