Thursday, January 17, 2008
nextstep Advisers are ready and waiting to help Staffordshire’s over-50s use 2008 as an opportunity to make a new year leap back into learning, training or work.
The service, which gives expert advice on learning, training and the world of work to adults with few qualifications, aims to make sure everyone in this group is aware of the support available to help them make the most of their opportunities.
The Age Discrimination Act which came into place in October 2006 makes it illegal to discriminate against workers, employees, job seekers and trainees on the grounds of their age, which should make it easier for more mature people to find and stay in work.
This, when coupled with the fact we are living longer and the uncertainty around pensions, is likely to make working more necessary for many older people.
Elaine Dodd, Adult Manager for Connexions Staffordshire, commented: “Many of our more mature clients tell us that they have found it difficult to secure good jobs because of their age. Some also lack the confidence when attending interviews or filling out application forms and there is also often the fear of being rejected.”
nextstep Advisers can give older people specialist advice on making themselves more marketable to potential employers, including increasing their confidence and knowledge of the labour market and creating CVs that emphasise working experience and what the individual has to offer. It may have been sometime since clients have had interviews, so Advisers will give help on what to expect and even stage a mock scenario before the real thing.
Elaine added: “It’s a common fact recognised by many employers that more mature people can bring valuable skills to an employer, such as life experiences, good customer service skills, reliability, honesty, a good work ethic and a willingness to learn new skills.”
nextstep is managed by Connexions Staffordshire, funded by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) and delivered by a range of partner organisations from across the county.
Its current message focuses on it never being too late to retrain or learn new skills no matter what your age. To book your free advice session please call Freephone 0800 2980234, or visit www.nextstepstaffs.org.uk
