Unemployed residents in the Cumberland area have been given a helping hand to access potential jobs.
Cumberland Council’s Skills and Enterprise Partnership recently delivered a three-day programme providing participants with a broad range of information about careers at the council as well as an opportunity to meet staff already employed. They were also supported with making job applications for current vacancies.
Delivered by partnership member, Inspira, participants gained an insight into qualities and skills important for a career in the public sector. The key ones being problem solving, adaptability, cross cultural awareness, emotional intelligence, diplomacy and reality testing.
Participants were made aware of some benefits of working for Cumberland Council such as the staff pension scheme, flexible working hours and the learning and development opportunities available.
The Skills and Enterprise Partnership is made up of local skills and employment support, including Cumberland Council and the DWP. The programme is funded by Copeland Community Fund and Sellafield Ltd.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
“The programme is ideal for anyone considering a career in the public sector. Attendees will be in a better position to apply for vacancies, and hopefully go on to secure jobs. A big thanks to all the partners that supported the three-day programme.”
Cumberland staff from various departments supported the programme. With representatives from Parks and Open Spaces, Health and Social Care, Highways and the council’s Resourcing team attending. They provided an overview of the roles and their own career journeys. Information and videos were shared about the council’s recruitment process including application forms hints and tips.
On the final day of the programme, participants were matched to vacancies in their area of interest and then supported in making job applications.
Comments from attendees included:
"The course has inspired me to partake in a role within the Public Sector. The staff from Inspira and the council were very informative, kind and willing to help me develop my interpersonal skills."
"I have found the Public Sector training really helpful. I have now applied for jobs within the Public Sector. Inspira has helped me with my cover letter, which has helped me apply for jobs easily. I had a good talk with one of the Cumberland Council staff from the Gables Residential home. I got to ask questions about the job role and talk about my past experience in care.”