A WOMAN who helps people get back in to the workplace was honoured at the Place to be Proud of Awards on Thursday last week.

Maxine Hart not only plays a key role in recruitment agency Wote Street People, she also uses her skills with the M3 Job Club, which runs coaching-led sessions including workshops for individuals looking to return to the world of work especially after redundancy.

Maxine was not available on the night to pick up her award, but the Gazette managed to speak to her afterwards.

Maxine said: “It was really positive news to hear that I’d won. It was a team effort, and we really work together for the community at every level.

“We are helping adults get back into work and trying to have a support structure for every level, including work experience as well as jobs.”

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for communities, culture and partnerships, Councillor Simon Bound, said: “Maxine is a wonderful example of an individual who goes above and beyond in everything she does.

“In addition to her role as operations director at Wote Street People, she carries out invaluable work in the local community.

“This includes talking to school children about their futures and her role as a trustee of the M3 job club where she takes the time to get to know all the members personally.”

RUNNERS UP: Jacky Dascombe and Teresa O’Reilly of the Night Light Winter Shelter