OUT of work young people in East Cornwall have a new club to go to, thanks to three local employers.

A pilot work club has been set up in Callington by Ginsters, Tesco Callington and the RAF, with backing from Jobcentre Plus.

The new club is the first one in Cornwall to be run by employers, with members of staff on tap to share their knowledge and experience. The aim is for local communities to take a lead and encourage people to work together to offer additional support to the unemployed.

Work clubs will provide unemployed people with a place to meet and exchange skills, find opportunities, make contacts, share experiences and receive support to help them in their return to work.'

Employer engagement manager for Jobcentre Plus Rachael Butler said: 'Employer-led work clubs offer an opportunity to hear first-hand from the employer what it is like working in various fields.

'Employers can provide an insight into a particular sector, whilst jobseekers could identify with someone who has recently secured employment and can share their experience of returning to the labour market.

'This is also a good opportunity to seek advice on CVs,

covering letters, interview techniques and company research.'

The all-day event was hosted at Ginsters training academy. Training co-ordinator for the company Chris Schaffer said: 'It is important to offer the best advice, and to prepare everyone for the best possible chance with job applications.

'As one of the largest employers in the area, we were happy to help, and we thank everyone for making the day a great success. We look forward to more job clubs running from our training centre in the future.'

Corporal Jenny Long of the RAF Careers service, who led the participants through a series of team-building exercises, added: 'The day gave all involved a valuable insight into the teamwork, leadership and communications skills needed for the many varied roles the Royal Air Force has to offer.'

One of the participants Harry Dickinson said: 'It was really helpful. I probably would have completely failed at applying for my next job if I hadn't come here. It has definitely changed my mind on my approach to looking for work.'

Victoria Good from Tesco said: 'The youngsters were a bit reserved at first, but by the end of the day they seemed to find the whole experience rewarding.

'I certainly learned quite a bit and we got a lot of positive feedback from the day. Hopefully, we can all, employers and would-be employees alike, benefit from this club.'