NEON

NEON (New Employment Opportunities Network) brings businesses, public services and community organisations together to create pathways into work. Supported by Homewards.

Starting a new job? Drop in to sort out the practical things that can get in the way: travel to work, clothing for your first week, and making your money last until your first payday.NEON employers can offer small travel and clothing grants for new starters.

Ready for Day One: Travel, Clothing & First Payday Support

Weekly one-to-one time with a mentor from a Newport business. Talk through your goals, practise interviews, and get honest advice from someone who hires people.

1:1 Mentoring with a Local Business Leader

Spend a morning behind the scenes at a Newport employer that has signed up to NEON. Meet the team, see the different roles on offer and ask the questions you can't ask at an interview.Travel costs can be covered — just let us know when you book.

NEON Employer Open Day: See Inside a Local Business

Try a short, supported trial shift in a busy kitchen or front-of-house team. There's no pressure and no experience needed — the aim is to find out whether the work suits you.A NEON mentor will be with you on the day, and trial shifts can lead to a permanent role.

Trial Shift Taster: Hospitality & Catering

Find out how apprenticeships work, what they pay and which local employers are recruiting. Bring a friend if you like.You'll leave with a shortlist of apprenticeships to apply for and help with the next step.

Apprenticeships Explained: Earn While You Learn

A four-week paid placement with a NEON employer in retail and customer service. You'll be paid for every shift, with a named mentor and flexible rotas.Placements are designed to lead to a permanent job, full or part time.

Paid Work Placement: Retail & Customer Service (4 weeks)

Meet the employers in the NEON network in one place. Find out about jobs, placements and apprenticeships, and speak to people who have been through the programme.

Meet NEON Employers: Newport Jobs & Opportunities Fair

A four-day traineeship covering site safety, facilities work and the basics of a construction trade, finishing with a job interview with a NEON employer.PPE and lunch are provided.