Are you looking to get into work but could do with a helping hand? The process can feel quite overwhelming, especially if you’ve been out of the loop for a while, but job clubs can make it that bit easier.
Whether you are out of work, taken a break or want to change your career, there are a series of free workshops you can join to give you a head start in getting that dream job.
CAP job club in Northfields is run by volunteers on behalf of the charity, Christians Against Poverty, at St Paul’s church in Ridley Avenue, and is open to everyone, it’s not just for church-goers. It’s a 10-week course and each session focuses on a new topic, such as interview techniques, writing a CV and more.
Celebrating a decade
In April, the club will have been running for 10 years and, in that time, it has helped hundreds of people.
Job club manager, Julia Sarson, has been part of the group since it began. She said: “We’ve only been able to achieve what we have done thanks to a fantastic team that brings so much skill and experience with them, Community and church members have played their part too, helping with interviews, networking opportunities and even cooking lunches. They have helped to make this work.
“The thing I love the most about this group is the support people give one another.”
Fiona Winning attended the course recently after hearing about it from a friend. She had been out of work for some time and was looking for a change in career. Fiona said: “It’s a really good course to be part of. There is a different stream of work every week, and you learn to identify skills that you may not have even noticed you have. The tutors are great and it’s a very friendly atmosphere.”
Get involved
The next workshops begin on Tuesday 30 April. Registration sessions will be held on 16 and 23 April.
For more information, or to sign up, email juliasarson@capjobclubs.org or visit the Job Club website.
Learn Ealing
If you don’t think the job club is the right fit for you, you could take a look at the courses offered by Ealing Council’s adult learning team, Learn Ealing. It offers anything from computer skills, to budgeting as well as a host of hobby related sessions too, such as drawing and singing.
Councillor Louise Brett, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes, said: “There are so many courses to choose from, you don’t have to stop at one. You could do something just for fun, and another that will give you skills at home or in the workplace. They can boost your confidence and are a great way to meet new friends.”
