REDDITCH JobCentre is piloting a new scheme to help older people retrain to fill available vacancies.
The scheme, called Platinum Plus, is a programme for customers who are aged 50 and over, offering tailored support to help them gain more skills.
Rather than only applying for jobs with the skills they have, the scheme helps expand their skillset, opening them up for more opportunities.
The JobCentre has also launched an HGV sector-based work academy.
A waiting list is now open for claimants who wish to join the next course which begins in Worcester in March.
Gwyn Sherriff, Mercia District partnership manager, said: “Across our JobCentres, work coaches provide every jobseeker with tailored support, helping to build confidence and develop new skills, so breaking down the barriers for those re-entering the workforce.
“The focus [for Platinum Plus] is for people over 50 or those who have been out of work due to ill health.
“Increasing the labour force is a key activity in order to help businesses fill their vacancies.”
The JobCentre has also been working with Heart of Worcestershire (HOW) College, offering teaching assistant training and guaranteed interviews, alongside railway maintenance and construction skills training with Redditch employers offering guaranteed interviews.
Ms Sherriff added: “To support this we are holding regular jobs fairs, sector-based work academies and boot camps.
“We are also supporting local prisons such as HMP Hewell and HMP Long Lartin with their recruitment for Prison Officers and other positions.
“Our teams are also working closely with NHS teams to support the Care Sector.”
