Working in Tourism and Hospitality (WITH) project evaluation

The WITH partnership project aimed to develop a competitive workforce to enable the people of West Dunbartonshire gain jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector. The evaluation aimed to assess: the extent to which the programme has met its strategic aims; the impact of the programme on Dunbartonshire individuals; its economic impact and value for money; existing monitoring mechanisms; any leading practice that could be replicated across the SE network; and whether the project has met ESF funding criteria.

The methodology consisted of: stakeholder and partner interviews; six case studies; a client, employer and trainer survey; a process review; and comparator project review.

Concludes that the project is well-run, good value for money, and consistently meets its headline targets. Out of 350 clients since 2002, 50% have found employment with help from WITH, a high rate of success for a project targeting people in deprived areas. Notes that women are more successful in finding employment, and clients based in Alexandria and Dumbarton achieve the most sustained results (80% compared with 60% for clients from Clydebank). Shows the focus of training was designed to be particularly relevant to entry-level jobs. The courses are judged to be the right standard by employers, clients and the training agencies themselves. Finds the monitoring and evaluation systems to be comprehensive and effective. There are issues over the need to maintain regular contact with employers.

Recommends that the project offer: a safe and guaranteed supply of work experience; supervisor training; and more advanced training for people interested in higher level positions. Suggests increasing the project’s marketing efficiency. The project should: provide parallel support for employers through schemes run by SE Dunbartonshire; address other fundamental issues to the sector; and offer additional support for the clients who need it.