Do you need help finding a job?

Published Thursday, 11th January 2018

A NEW initiative is about to be launched to help unemployed Hartlepool people develop skills that will increase their chances of getting a job.

“Steps into Employment” is a FREE Hartlepool Adult Education-run course that will enable people aged 16+ to gain a recognised City and Guilds Qualification over five weekly training sessions.

Participants must be unemployed and seeking employment or training and everyone who successfully completes the course is guaranteed an interview with a local employer or recruitment agency.

Anyone wishing to take part in the course has the choice of three venues – Hartlepool Borough Council’s Community Hubs in the north, centre and south of the town.

Weekly training sessions will take place at the following times:

Community Hub North in Miers Avenue – Mondays, 1-3.30pm, from 15 January; Community Hub Centre in York Road – Wednesdays, 10am-12.30pm, from 17 January; Community Hub South in Wynyard Road – Monday 9.30am-12pm, from 15 January.

During the sessions, trainees will learn about:

· Building a standout CV

· Using on-line job search websites, setting up a personal profile and uploading a CV and cover letter

· What employers are looking for from prospective employees

· Interview skills

· Company websites and where to find details of vacancies

· What is required when applying online and how to complete an online application form

Olwen Maddison from Hartlepool Adult Education said: “People don’t need any special skills to get involved, just a desire and willingness to improve their job prospects. Everyone will begin by completing an initial assessment so that we can support them in achieving the best possible outcome.

“Following attendance on this course, people have the option of progressing onto other courses that can also help boost their employment prospects, including English, maths or IT. Hartlepool Adult Education has a range of vocational courses to choose from and offers recognised qualifications at various levels which are particularly sought after by employers.”

Anyone wishing to participate in “Steps into Employment” should contact Hartlepool Adult Education on (01429) 868616 or simply attend one of the sessions and talk to the tutor. Further information is available at www.haded.org.uk or on Facebook at HartlepoolAdultEducation.