Unemployed people in Blackpool and Fleetwood are been given the chance to take part in a challenging and rewarding development programme called Jobtrain. It is aimed at helping participants to become more motivated, enthusiastic and positive about finding a job.

Now into the fourth week, David Leadbetter, the Jobtrain contract manager for Inspira, said, “The first set of programmes have been a great success with participants getting a lot out of the course and acknowledging that they feel more confident applying for jobs.”

Over the course of the year, there will be 32 programmes held at the YMCAs in St Anne’s and Fleetwood. Jobcentre Plus claimants are referred by their work coaches to an initial diagnostic interview, and then they are booked on to a course.

Inspira, a leading career management and personal development organisation, manages the contract in the coastal areas of Blackpool, North Lancashire and Cumbria on behalf of the Department of Work and Pensions. Careers Connect delivers the programme for Inspira in Fleetwood and Blackpool.

David Howard, Engagement and Participation Services Director for Career Connect said, “Career Connect is delighted to be working in partnership with Inspira in delivering the Jobtrain programme.  We are committed to helping participants improve their job search techniques and their knowledge of opportunities. We believe by delivering activities that are both enjoyable and relevant we can help participants realise their potential and achieve their ambitions.”

Around 400 unemployed people from the Blackpool and Fleetwood areas will be offered the chance to take part in Jobtrain.

Inspira beat competition from national training providers to secure the new contract to be delivered on behalf of the Department of Work and Pension.

Alongside government departments, local authorities, schools and colleges, Inspira also works with employers through programmes like Ready for Work which helps local people gain local employment, and the National Careers Service.