PEOPLE with disabilities are being offered skills training to help them find work.

Gloucestershire County Council is launching a new initiative with partners Job Centre Plus and Westmorland’s Gloucester Services on the M5. The project which will be delivered by the council’s adult education service gives support to adults with learning difficulties and mental health needs, equipping them with the skills they need to compete for jobs.

The course runs for two weeks starting Monday, April 13. Those taking part will devote two days per week for two weeks, to complete training in ‘employability skills’ developed by the county council’s adult education service.

The programme builds on the successful 2014 pilot scheme when 29 learners, all of whom were long-term unemployed and in receipt of employment and support allowance, completed the training with 40 per cent going on to secure employment.

The course aims to build confidence and self-belief, and develop personal time-management skills. Candidates will also receive customer service training.

Gloucestershire County Council and the Department of Work and Pensions have jointly referred candidates to the programme.

At the end of the course, learners are guaranteed first interviews with Westmorland for jobs at the new service outlet on the M5 southbound carriageway.

Coaching will be given to help learners plan and prepare for job interviews, and successful candidates could be offered a permanent position.

Chris Haynes, Interim Joint Commissioner, Learning Disabilities said, “We know people with disabilities want to work and have a lot to contribute so this training is a fantastic opportunity. Last year’s pilot demonstrates how a little extra support can make a huge difference and help those who need that extra boost into mainstream employment.”