GALASHIELS Jobcentre is planning to run a number of training courses and events on employability skills, training and volunteering.

One event is on Thursday February 9 and organisations confirmed to attend are Scottish Borders Council’s Employability Services, Skills Development Scotland, Borders College, Works Plus and Volunteer Centre Borders.

In partnership with Fairstart Scotland Galashiels Jobcentre is also planning to run a CSCS training course to start at the end of January / early February with Lowland Training to support customers into the Construction Sector.

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The Jobcentre also has three courses specifically designed to support people aged 50+ to help them back into employment.

These courses are due to start in Galashiels on Monday January 30, and Hawick and Eyemouth on Tuesday March 28.

Anyone over 50 that who is interested in finding out more about these courses should speak to their Work Coach at their local Jobcentre.

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Partnership manager for the Scottish Borders Mike Niven said: “Our work coaches are here to support people taking the first steps on their journey back to work.

“The priority is helping those 50Plus, and others who may need to build confidence and develop new skills because they’ve been out of the jobs market for a while.

“For the coming year plans are already in hand to focus activity on helping businesses recruit, as there are still plenty of vacancies available especially in the Care and Construction sectors and we continue to support local employers such as Ark Housing, Eildon Housing, Adam Purves Garages and Outside the Box with their local vacancies.”

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Minister for Employment, Guy Opperman MP said: “It is positive to see more people moving into jobs or taking steps to search for work.

“Helping people to secure a reliable income is a priority as we start this year. Across our jobcentres we provide one-to-one tailored support for every jobseeker, breaking down barriers for those thinking about re-entering the workforce, such as older workers or those who have been out of work due to ill health.

“We know the challenges people are facing with the cost of living and have already provided substantial support to help with rising bills, while millions of vulnerable households will continue to be supported with up to £1,350 in additional direct cash payments over the next financial year.”