STAFF at Swindon's Jobcentre are hosting clubs and courses to help jobseekers find the right vacancy.

In February, there were 5,265 jobseekers in Swindon claiming Universal Credit, which is 2,782 (35 per cent) less than last year but 1,915 (39 per cent) more than five years ago.

Of these, 814 were aged 18 to 24, which is 691 (46 per cent) fewer than Feb 2021 but 298 (58 per cent) more than in 2017.

Swindon Jobcentre is working to bring employers into its offices to meet with customers who are looking to work because they find face to face contact a good way to overcome some of the barriers inherent in online processes.

A Job Club helps clients identify jobs and apply for them in the most effective way by improving CVs and offering interview practice with detailed feedback to guarantee improved performance.

The jobcentre runs short work academy courses in conjunction with training providers and employers to give people the skills they need for sectors such as construction and hospitality. Graduates of these academies receive guaranteed job interviews with employers as part of the offer.

Staff can match and sift applications from employers looking to take on jobseekers, which is a service being provided for companies such as Purely Recruitment, GL Education and Buildbase.

Jobcentre manager Sam Edwards said: “With record levels of vacancies across the country, it’s our top priority to work in step with employers and jobseeker to match the right job with the right person.

“We’re continuing to invite businesses, especially in the key industries. such as health, social Care and supply chain roles including HGV and warehouse professionals into our jobcentres, by organising regular jobs fairs.

“More people are getting into work faster, with the latest payroll figures showing the number of people entering work increasing. Importantly, our Way to Work campaign has given us all the impetus to support more people by connecting them to the employers we are working in partnership with.”

Jobs being advertised at the moment include a repair and maintenance supervisor for Thames Water in Highworth, a sign installer for The AA in Swindon, and a portfolio scheduling officer at the UK SBS.

CCH Carpet Cleaning director Callum Forbes said: “The Jobcentre has been able to produce suitable candidates where other methods such as recruiters and online advertising haven't.

"The process has been smooth from start to finish with a personal service and single point of contact."