The Big Issue’s new National Customer Support Centre officially opened in Perth this week, creating opportunities for women who face significant barriers to entering the workforce and building financial independence.
With thanks to funding from the Cook Government, who have committed $1.5 million to support the program, the new centre will provide stable job placements to more than 100 women over the next five years as part of The Big Issue’s Women’s Workforce program.
Women Minister Simone McGurk officially opened the facility in Hay Street, Perth, exhibiting the Cook Government’s commitment to building safe and inclusive communities.
“I am proud to open The Big Issue’s new National Customer Support Centre in Perth and welcome the support and opportunities it will provide to women to develop workplace skills and confidence within a safe environment.
“Gaining employment is a crucial step for many women and families to get back on their own two feet and secure financial independence. The Women’s Workforce program has been a catalyst for change, and the new National Customer Support Centre initiative will deliver employment and training opportunities to many more women who face significant barriers to entering the workforce.
The National Customer Support Centre will be operated through The Big Issue’s Women’s Workforce program which provides meaningful employment and training opportunities for women experiencing homelessness, disadvantage and marginalisation through packing and sending magazine subscriptions to The Big Issue in a safe and supportive environment.
Women participating in the program will receive targeted training in a customer service environment, including:
- Spreadsheets
- Data collection
- Processing phone and email enquiries and create bookings.
Training focuses on digital skills needed to boost the women’s capacity and equip them to move into long term employment when ready. Transferable skills included in training modules also include cyber security and privacy obligations to ensure that participants are empowered for the modern workforce.
The Big Issue CEO Steven Persson says the new program is another step forward to communities of empowerment, independence and connection.
“Supporting people on the street is a civil and necessary thing to do, but it’s not a solution on its own. At The Big Issue, we’ve always believed economic empowerment must be part of the answer.
“We are committed to meeting people, especially the most vulnerable, where they are, and creating barrier-free employment opportunities wherever we can. For many women escaping family violence, particularly those caring for children or rebuilding their lives, selling the magazine on the street simply wasn’t an option. So we created a practical solution: a safe, supportive workplace where women could earn an income, build confidence and take steps towards stability.
“We thank the WA Government for its leadership in investing in programs that help vulnerable women into work. With growing numbers of women seeking support from The Big Issue, initiatives like this are critical in building independence and connection to community, and we hope WA’s leadership will help pave the way for expanding similar programs in other States.”
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