This episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast discusses the challenges of employment in rural areas, focusing on Wisbech. The guests, Russell Beale and Terry Jordan, share their insights and experiences. They discuss the employment statistics of Anglian Water, the typical industries in Wisbech, and the impact of mechanization on labor opportunities. They also explore the importance of connectivity, such as the need for a railway station and improved transport links. The conversation highlights the difficulties faced by employers and employees in rural areas, including the lack of skilled workers and low-wage, part-time, or zero-hours contracts. The guests emphasize the need for regeneration, more medium-sized businesses, a wider range of jobs, and increased apprenticeships to improve employment prospects in rural areas and thus reduce the risk of someone becoming homeless.

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery speaks with Ed, who shares his personal experience of homelessness. Ed discusses the challenges he faced while being homeless, including the cycle of crime and imprisonment to have a roof over his head. He also highlights the difficulties of finding basic necessities like food and shelter while living on the streets. Ed emphasizes the importance of understanding and compassion towards homeless individuals and dispels misconceptions about homelessness. He expresses gratitude for the support he received from The Ferry Project, which helped him turn his life around and find stability.

Websites

ferryproject.org.uk

anglianwater.co.uk

wisbechtowncouncil.gov.uk

Takeaways

• Employment in rural areas, such as Wisbech, faces challenges due to factors like mechanization, lack of connectivity, and limited job opportunities.


• The absence of a railway station and poor transport links hinder employment prospects and economic growth in rural areas.


• Employers struggle to attract skilled workers locally, while employees face issues like low wages, part-time work, and insecure contracts.


• Regeneration, the development of medium-sized businesses, a wider range of jobs, and increased apprenticeships are crucial for improving employment prospects in rural areas.


• Addressing the complex issue of rural homelessness requires not only providing housing but also supporting individuals in finding stable employment and rebuilding their lives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:35 Guest Introduction: Russell Beale and Terry Jordan

03:25 The Impact of Connectivity on Employment in Wisbech

05:23 The Struggles Faced by Employers and Employees in Rural Areas

09:43 Attracting Graduates Back to Rural Areas

13:56 The Role of Regeneration in Improving Employment Prospects

18:14 The Importance of Apprenticeships and Support for Homeless Individuals

22:31 The Link Between Employment Prospects and Rural Homelessness

30:38 Hopes and Dreams for Employment in Rural Areas

36:08 Conclusion