Press Release issued: 10 February 2011.
A new 'Work Club' where jobseekers can get advice and support on finding work is being launched in the east end of Edinburgh by the charity RNIB Scotland.
The Work Club will give people in the city's Milton Road area a chance to meet others looking for work, build new contacts, share job-hunting experiences and get advice on interview techniques, CVs and even volunteering opportunities.
Work Clubs are part of the Government's 'Big Society' programme, which aims to create a new generation of volunteers that will deliver the support and services that their communities need.
Carol Mackay, who has set up the Milton Road Work Club said:
"Research shows that the best way to find another job is through friends, family or social networks, which is why it is so vital to have a Work Club in this area.
"During every session, we will help people to look for work by swapping ideas and talking to guest speakers, including people from local businesses, about opportunities in the area."
The Milton Road Work Club will hold its first meeting today, and every Tuesday thereafter, between 10.30 to 11.30am and 2pm to 3pm at RNIB Scotland, Moulsdale House, 24D Milton Road. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available.
The first meeting will discuss what the group would like to get from the Work Club, and what types of work they are looking for, including job types, industries, full or part-time work.
A plan of action will be agreed for the following weeks, with people looking out for opportunities for others in the group as well as themselves. Sessions will include: job-searching skills, CV building, communication and interview skills, goal-setting and action-planning, and IT skills such as how to set up e-mail address, attachments, websites for job searching.
Guest speakers will talk about what help the Jobcentre Plus can offer, in-work benefits and potential employers.
There are no criteria to attend the Work Club; everyone is welcome. But all materials and services will be accessible to people with sight loss.
If you would like to find out more information about the Milton Road Work Club, attend, or find out how you or your company can get involved, please contact Carol Mackay on 0131 657 8203 Ext 123 or email carol.mackay@rnib.org.uk.