New Employment Support Team - Positive Steps into Work THINK POSITIVE! There ARE positive steps you can take to help you claim your place back in the workplace. A new support service for Blackpool residents will provide intensive support for those who want to start or continue their journey back to the working environment. Visit the Positive Steps Website

‘Positive Steps into Work’ employs a team of specially trained Employment Outreach Advisers who understand the barriers that many, especially the long-term unemployed, face when trying to get back into work, such as loss of self confidence and lack of relevant skills. Employment Outreach Advisers listen to what their client needs and then help them to overcome their particular barriers to employment by offering different routes back into work. These may include opportunities such as volunteering, basic skills and IT courses, motivational training, help with CVs, application forms and interview skills or whatever it is they think they need that will help them to get back to work. The service is client led with support being tailored to meet the needs of individuals. Advisers will work hand-in-hand with clients to provide support while moving from benefits to work (including in-work benefit calculations) and provide on-going support when they begin working. The client will set the pace and advisers will work with them in a pressure free environment. The team also has an Employer Relationship Manager who will work with local employers to source specific employment opportunities for those participating in the programme. Positive Steps into Work is a joint venture between the Blackpool Employment and Skills Consortium and Blackpool Council, who were established to provide a joined up approach to employment, support and training opportunities available across the town. The Project is funded by the Northern Way, the European Regional Development Fund and the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund. Those claiming Incapacity benefit and those who are unemployed and living in Park, Claremont, Brunswick, Talbot and Bloomfield wards are a particular focus for the project. The service is accessed on a voluntary basis and does not affect any benefit entitlements. If you are interested and would like an informal chat about the programme please call ‘Positive Steps into Work’ now on 0800 073 2007 and take your first step towards a brighter future.