A Jobs and Training bus, supported by Bath & North East Somerset Council is due to start a tour of the area, beginning on Saturday 26th September.
The bus will combine the opportunity to apply for jobs across the area, including at Bath’s SouthGate shopping precinct on 4th November 2009, and the chance to learn more about training opportunities for people to brush-up their skills.
Cllr Terry Gazzard, Cabinet Member for Development and Major Projects, commented: “Bringing jobs and training together under one bus roof makes finding out information about two of the most crucial issues during the recession more convenient for local people. Bath & North East Somerset Council is supporting the project because, alongside our partners, we must all be proactive instead of residents having to hunt for jobs and courses.”
The bus will offer over three hundred job opportunities with employers from across the district, including retail, catering, care and customer service roles. Jobs with retailers opening new stores at SouthGate include Boots, H&M and Kurt Geiger which are all part of the Phase One stage of the development.
A range of West at Work agencies, including Jobcentre Plus, Connexions and the Council, will staff the bus offering a coordinated service for local people aimed at providing training and employment advice and support. Many of courses offered free to those who are currently unemployed. Courses on job search, CV writing, and interview skills are being offered, as well as NVQ qualifications such as retail and customer service skills.
West at Work, Director, David Draycott, said: “The jobs and training bus is a great way for local people to find out about all the opportunities on offer. They can find out about improving their skills and finding work. Having up-to-date skills and access to the latest information is vital in this economic climate and the bus is good place for jobseekers to start.”
On Saturday 26 September, New Look will be using the Jobs and Training bus on Stall Street as part of their recruitment drive for their new store at Southgate Bath. Following that, the Jobs and Training Bus will be located on Stall Street in Bath city centre on most Thursdays and Fridays leading up to the opening of the SouthGate development. The Jobs & Training Bus will also be visiting other urban areas outside Bath. A schedule will be announced shortly.