The migrant population in Dublin is now approximately 20% and migrants face higher barriers to employment than the indigenous Irish population, a fact which is reflected in higher unemployment statistics. (The overall migrant population in Ireland is approximate 12% according to the last census in 2011). The EPIC programme in its current form started in 2008, to address the recognised issue that migrants living in Ireland, particularly those from outside the EU, were facing difficulties integrating in Ireland. Gaining employment was identified as a key factor in helping people to integrate and so the EPIC programme’s quantitative targets are to place 220 people in employment or training per year. However, the overall qualitative goal of the programme is the wider one of helping people integrate into Irish society.

Potential clients are referred to EPIC through government organisations or NGOs who work with migrants, or through recommendation from previous clients. Following an assessment process, clients who meet our criteria (language skills, legal status) join a six week group training programme to prepare for seeking employment in the Irish workplace. This covers CVs, cover letters, job searching, identifying skills, interview preparation, motivation, resilience, cultural and practical information about living and working in Ireland. EPIC also links closely with major businesses in Ireland who provide IT training, social media training, mock interviews and a range of other supports. All of this is tailored to the different needs of migrants from the mainstream population. In addition to group training, all clients work one-to-one with specially training career advisors who continue to support them until they find employment or training opportunities. Support with other issues which impact employability (stress, family issues, housing etc.) is also provided. Arranging suitable unpaid work placements to gain Irish experience is also a growing service provided.

From 2008 to 2012, 1372 people have engaged with the EPIC programme. 44% of these (603 people) entered employment; 8% (105 people) took up intern/work placement positions to increase their skill; and 28% (380 people) got places in training or education. A total of 1088 people (79%) who engaged with EPIC during these 5 years were helped either into employment, or further along the path to employment. Client evaluations of the EPIC programme are consistently positive. Where suggestions are made, or problems identified, the programme is modified to address them.

At the beginning of each course (we run 15 courses of approximately 15 clients per year) our clients fill in a form evaluating their current level of skills and confidence around a range of areas related to finding employment – e.g. CV preparation, interview skills, writing job applications, number of jobs applied for in the last 3 months. At the end of the training, clients again self evaluate. In all cases, clients show a significant increase in their own rating of their skills and confidence. Clients also do evaluations of course content, delivery and materials, which are consistently high. Where problems are noted, we address them. EPIC has been externally evaluated and received very positive feedback.

The EPIC programme benefits immigrants living in the Dublin area who are facing barriers to accessing employment. All clients must be legally entitled to work, holding either an Irish Stamp 4 (permission to live in Ireland and work without a work permit) or an EU passport.

EPIC is funded by the Irish Department of Justice and Equality, and also under the ESF HCIOP 2007-2013. Business supporters contribute significant “in kind” resources each year in the form of sharing skills and expertise and provision of technical training. Annual budget is approximately €450k. The programme has 6 full time and 4 part time staff. Roles include trainer; training and employment officers; programme co-ordinator; administrative assistance; integration & promotion officer; psycho social support.