Comms Team

17/05/20

Supporting people grow in confidence and to access better job opportunities, is part of the work Livability’s work in Dorset. The local team have just partnered up with Poole Borough Council and other teams to deliver a special ‘one stop shop’ Employment Advice Service at Hamworth Library every Tuesday. So why is the work needed and how does it help?

The one stop shop that gives employability advice

For people seeking advice on how to move forward with their employment goals, this new ‘one stop shop’ service brings a selection of employability specialists together to offer advice support across a range of employment, career growth and training opportunities. The idea is to bring all the elements of a job search together, in one easy place.

The service is free to attend on a drop in basis and offers support with any employment related advice. This could guidance in finding the right carrier direction, identifying skills gaps or improving employability by strengthening candidates applications, CV’s or interview skills.

Why the work is needed

The service was launched during national careers week and is focused on providing extra support to individuals in the Poole area. Despite employment levels rising generally, there’s a localised level of deprivation in Dorset. Out of Dorset’s population of around 770,000, the Index of Multiple Deprivation 2010 shows that over 23,900 residents live in the top 15 per cent most income deprived areas. This increases to 46,300 for areas of health deprivation, 77,500 for a deprived living environment and over 100,000 for deprivation in relation to housing and access to services. In response to this, the service has been set up to help more people access job opportunities.

What difference does the service make?

Employment Engagement Officer, Charlie Howe describes the how the employment service will support those looking to secure their next step:

‘The service is open to anyone regardless of their employment status or circumstances. But this service goes beyond just the usual employment support. Often people are left overwhelmed about where to turn if they need additional support to achieve their personal goals or how to access local support services.

We can help by offering personalised advice and if they are unemployed and need more in-depth or long term support we can refer them to the UCan project where they will receive ongoing 1:1 holistic support addressing a range of barriers to work. We are passionate about supporting the local community and understand the challenges of the current job market.’

Thanking our local partners

A big thank you to all of the stand holders, National Careers Service, Citizens Advice, UCan, Dorset Growth Hub, Skills and Learning and Inspire Dorset and also to local cake maker, In For A Treat, who kindly donated her time to provide some delicious Livability themed cupcakes.