HELP is at hand for unemployed adults in Bridport thanks to a dedicated team – and extra funding – at Skills Training Bridport.

The first training session of 2014 for unemployed adults was today at the Kingston Maurward Centre, North Mills Trading Estate in Bridport.

The extra money – around £11,000 – will help up to 50 people to get job-related training.

Skills learned will include personal and practical skills, confidence and motivation, interview and CV writing, numeracy, literacy, IT and vocational support.

There will be work-based learning opportunities that match needs of employers in the local area as well as individual one-to-one mentoring and coaching from a range of experienced business representatives.

This year the project team has also found additional funding to support those enrolled to complete certificated courses in skills necessary in the modern workplace.

Project recruiter Richard Smith a member of the Bridport Chamber, and a former Prince’s Trust Young Ambassador now running an IT business in Bridport said: “Last year’s project helped 34 people into jobs, training or apprenticeships.

“If you have lost your job and need support to help you get another one please contact me on our dedicated recruitment line on 01308 887853, or to email skillstrainingbridport@gmail. com to arrange your first session.”

Coun Ros Kayes, a founder member of the scheme said they had asked employers locally about the skills they need and had found volunteer mentors from the local business community willing to pass on those skills.

She said: “Our mentors include members of the Bridport Chamber of Trade and Commerce whose president, Tim Hunt, has also helped to plan and implement this and delivered the previous project through his team at Miles Cross Education and Enterprise Centre in Symondsbury.

“We are also fortunate to have the training skills of Paul Conde, previously a trainer with Nacro and Weymouth, Bridgwater and Kingston Maurward colleges, who has huge experience in delivering the right kind of vocational support to get people back to work.

“We also have Richard Smith, a member of the Bridport Chamber, a former Prince’s Trust Young Ambassador running an IT business who will offer support in getting grants for business start up as well as a range of IT skills.”

This year the project is working with Magna Housing and some of the IT training will take place at the newly-equipped West Rivers House, and with Kingston Maurward College at its training centre in North Mills.