Weather
Placement firm aims to expand
From the Swindon Advertiser, first published Tuesday 8th Mar 2005.
PHOENIX Mailing which employs people recovering from mental illness is expanding and looking for new businesses to join its list of local clients.
Set up in 2001 as a registered charity and a plc, Phoenix offers mailing and assembly services.
It employs 23 volunteers of all ages and is hoping to be able to offer more volunteer placements soon.
"We're looking to develop the support and the commercial side," said manager Brian Tyler.
"Developing the commercial side will help us become more self-sufficient and in turn enable us to take on more volunteers."
Volunteers at the scheme perform tasks such as assembling manuals and putting together mass-mailings.
"We specialise in the awkward jobs and the jobs that can't be easily mechanised," said Mr Tyler.
"We pride ourselves on our flexible workforce."
In return for their work, volunteers at Phoenix Mailing get the chance to develop skills and boost their self-confidence in a structured working environment.
Each member is given vocational training and personal programmes adapted to their specific needs.
These can include training in numeracy and literacy, to NVQ standards, as well as exercises on confidence building and working in a team environment. Members also take an active role in running the organisation and are involved in taking business decisions.
Mr Tyler said: "Our aim is to give people the skills to enable them to go on into jobs in competitive employment."
Phoenix Mailing's clients include Swindon Chamber of Commerce, Business Link and Community Insight, as well as French and Swiss companies enlisted through local contacts.
Samantha Jackson, the business development manager of the Swindon Chamber,said: "The role that Phoenix have within the area is key to many businesses and acts as a core function to many chamber members.
"The team are a delight to work with and I am only too pleased to promote Phoenix Mailing as a preferred supplier."
As well as helping members and providing a service that benefits local businesses, Phoenix Mailing is actively involved in charity work.
The scheme recently raised £700 for victims of the Asian Tsunami.
Local Advertisers
Local Information
Enter your postcode, town or place name
