A free County Durham employment project, that has already helped 25 people back on the road to work, is making a last call for its next round of recruits.
The Stepping Stones to Employment project, led by County Durham Housing Group and Auckland Castle Trust, is designed to boost confidence, develop new and transferrable skills and enhance employability in a fun and easy way.
With just days to go before the deadline to apply passes on Monday September 4, only a handful of places remain for the innovative 10-week course. The course will run at Auckland Youth and Community Centre, in Woodhouse Close, Bishop Auckland from Thursday September 7.
Everyone taking part will be given the chance to improve their employment prospects by gaining skills and qualifications in areas such as health and safety, first aid, food hygiene, event planning and computing.
More than 90% of those who enrolled on previous Stepping Stones courses, found either work or further education and training within weeks of completion; including one who is carving out a career with the prison service and another now employed as a swimming coach.
Sean Robson, Community Training Coordinator at County Durham Housing Group, said: “As soon as we announced this course, interest was high. We’ve only got a handful of places left now so I’d urge anyone in the Bishop Auckland area who is looking to improve their work skills to get in touch.
“Anyone who has spent time looking for a job will know that it can seriously knock your confidence. That’s why Stepping Stones places such an emphasis on growing confidence and real experience of interview techniques.“
At the end of the Stepping Stones course, all participants will have the opportunity to use their new skills in a practice interview at regional charity Auckland Castle Trust.
Alison Tweddle from Auckland Castle Trust, said: “Stepping Stones to Employment is accessible to all ages and backgrounds. Each fun and informal session is steered by attendees and is designed specifically to help people feel confident and prepared enough to re-enter the workforce or begin further training.”
The Stepping Stones to Employment project is funded by NE Procurement. For more information, or to apply, please contact Sean Robson at County Durham Housing Group on 0191 349 7753 or at training@cdhg.co.uk