College workshops to help the jobless.

BOURNVILLE College has launched a new initiative helping unemployed and recently redundant people return to work.

Just six weeks after implementation of the programme, more than a half of the candidates have already gained employment.

The eight-week training course consists of a variety of workshops designed to prepare candidates for working in the production and manufacturing sector.

Workshops, delivered by Bournville College, include problem solving, team-building, basic manufacturing techniques and communications skills.

Candidates also get to participate in physical training delivered at LA Fitness, designed to help them prepare for coping with manual work. The training was open to 29 individuals referred through Job Centre Plus.

Six weeks into the training programme most candidates have already been offered a job at Cadbury, one of the biggest employers in Birmingham. Jackie Patterson, aged 49, from Woodgate Valley, who lost her last job due to the recession, was amongst those who secured employment.

She said: "I've been looking for jobs since March, but had no luck.

Then I discovered this course and thought I had nothing to lose.

"The programme was very useful because it didn't only focus on training in manual work, but also other aspects of work, such as team building, assertiveness, risk assessment and physical fitness."

Kieron Burns, 35, from Selly Park, added: "I've been job hunting for the last two years and finally I've got one! The training was excellent. It prepared me for employment and set a routine to my life after a two-year gap."

The scheme is supported by the Learning and Skills Council, WM Local Government Association's European Social Fund (ESF) and Cadbury. Call Richard Nicklin on 0121 483 1114 or email [e-mail] to discuss your needs.

CAPTION(S):

Eager: Kieron Burns and Jackie Patterson study the course work.