The Monaghan local employment service (LES) is one of 26 local employment service networks in Ireland.  The service is delivered locally through Monaghan Integrated Development and is funded by FAS.  The LES provides a free, voluntary and confidential service for people in County Monaghan wishing to find employment.  

Supports offered include:

• Mediation/Career Guidance Service: One to one career advice and planning, referrals to training, education and support agencies, assistance with funding.  Supporting people into employment, government schemes and work placements.

• Delivery of STEPS Training Course: The STEPS course is a confidence building programme.  It is designed to support long term unemployed in various aspects of their lives.  The focus is on motivational skills, goal setting, attitudes and belief systems.  The overall aim of the programme is to help people lead more fulfilling and successful lives, building self-esteem and encouraging people to take control of their life to find the kind of job they deserve.  The course is delivered in a relaxed athmosphere with games, videos, drawing and lively discussions.

• Information and Advice Service: Providing information on employment both national and local.  Access to daily job vacancies, training and education options.  Local knowledge of the area, employers and supporting agencies. 

• Employer Network: Liasing with local employers on job opportunities and work placements.  Providing support with recruitment of staff.  Supplying employers with access to resources such as fax machine, interview rooms and notice boards.

• Jobs Club: CV preparation/letters of application; Mock Interviews.

Who can avail of the Service?

• People who are long-term unemployed (and their adult dependents)
• One parent families
• Early school leavers
• Young people at risk of becoming unemployed
• People with disabilities
• Members of the travelling community
• Ex-prisoners
• People with substance misuse issues
• People who are homeless
• Community Employment and Job Initiative participants
• Members of new communities
• Small holders

For further information contact:

Monaghan (Eileen Murphy)
Ballybay (Olivia Duffy and Sonia O'Connor)
Castleblayney (Briege Brady)
Carrickmacross (Leslie Donnelly)
Clones (Anne McCague)

Client Testimonials:

"The service has been of great value to me mostly because it’s free, local and confidential.  I have used the service on many occasions seeking advice on career guidance, sourcing employment, filling out job application forms, and preparing for interview.

I found the staff professional and friendly. I would highly recommend this local service for any one seeking advice & information on employment, education and training."

Female client age 51 (returning to the workforce after raising her family)

"The LES service has been an excellent resource and support to me. I was made redundant in 2008 and referred to the service by Social Welfare.

On my career journey with the LES I have participated in the STEPS programme which improved my self-esteem and confidence. I also participated in the Job Club which prepared me for job hunting and interviews.

The service set-up and supported me into Monaghan County Council on a 3 month placement within the Environmental Control Department (which is my career goal).  The work placement has provided valuable experience, a network of contacts and insight into a career in Environmental Studies.

I have been working with Mediator Mari Nolan and really appreciate her professional approach, honesty and supportive nature. 

I am continuing to engage with the service and am hoping to continue studying in the Environmental area."

Female Client aged 26