Developing employability skills in local communities: supporting the economy, health sector and addressing the social determinants of health

Employment is a key determinant of health and is consistent with a range of positive health, social and economic outcomes for individuals and communities. This paper focuses on an innovative skills and employment project undertaken in Leeds, a large metropolitan city in the United Kingdom. It sought to create an employment pathway from the community into hospital-based employment, mirroring theoretical aspects of the health-promoting hospital philosophy, or more broadly a settings approach to health promotion which seeks greater levels of social justice. Using qualitative methodology with key constituents of the programme, the research identified an approach to connecting local communities with paid employment roles in a local hospital. The research focussed on the conception, design and delivery of the programme and has showed the elements required to increase the likelihood of success. This includes providing a bespoke support and tailored intervention package for individuals and strong partnership working between delivery partners and strategic groups. While the focus of the research is not on outcomes, there are examples of instances where individuals had gained employment and skills; increases in confidence; and evidence of the programme raising aspirations for themselves and others.