Sparks fly and welding flames flicker, hammering, grinding, drilling and sawing at the workbenches. Unadorned pieces of sheet metal are turned into artistic and useful steel objects in the Gebal metalworking shop in Gevelsberg. They are made by people in particular social difficulties who are affected by long-term unemployment. For them, the Bethel workshop in the southern Ruhr area is an opportunity for further training and preparation for re-entry into the primary labour market.
Using pliers and a hammer, Heinz Eis moulds the ears of a dog figurine. An oval stone will later form the body. The head, legs and tail are made from sheet steel. Heinz Eis says that he has been working with metal since his youth. This was followed by 18 years working underground as a miner in a colliery in Saarland. "Until it closed at some point - and I couldn't find a new job," says the 57-year-old, looking back. Three years have passed since his last job. But having a daily structure is important, he says. "Before I sit at home for eight hours during the day, I prefer to come here because I enjoy the work," emphasises Heinz Eis.
