DEVON County Council's library in Tavistock has launched an innovative new project to support unemployed local people to get back to work.

The Job Club is a new weekly event aimed at helping out of work residents get back into employment, and support those looking for their first job. It will take place every Wednesday between 2pm and 4pm from now until Wednesday December 8.

The sessions, run in partnership with Tavistock Rotary Club, will include help and advice on CV writing, assistance with online application forms as well as providing computer access in order to search for vacancies and completing online tutorials.

County Cllr Stuart Barker, cabinet member with responsibility for the county's libraries, said: 'I am delighted that we are able to offer this free service in Tavistock Library. In challenging times job clubs such as this one can really help those looking for work — offering inspiration, advice and networking opportunities.

'Library staff will be on hand to provide one-to-one IT support, while Rotarians will be able to share their wealth of employment knowledge and business experience.

'Job Centre Plus already provides a service point for people to claim their benefits at the library every Tuesday, 9am to 5pm, and Thursday, 9am to 1.30pm, but the job club will provide a social contact with people in the same situation and with people who can give help and advice on the best route back into work. These clubs can also help boost the local economy as they provide local businesses with access to job seekers too.'

Rotary Club president Geri Parlby said: 'We are very pleased to be involved in this project; there is a wealth of business expertise amongst our membership and this is a very practical way of using their experience for the benefit of the community.'

For more information, contact Tavistock Library on 01822 612218.