Posted on: Thursday 23 June 2022
A new service offering job and training advice is taking to the road.
Following the success of Employment and Skills Advice Pod, at Cwmbran Library, Torfaen Council’s Employability and Skills team will be launching a new bus to provide one-to-one support within communities.
The CELT bus, which is part of the regional Connect, Engage, Listen, Transform pilot project, will be available to anyone who needs help looking for work, changing jobs or improving their skills.
It will also offer internet access and digital support, as well as information about local support services.
Charlotte, from Pontypool, was recently helped by the service at Cwmbran Library, which opened in March.
She said: “I went to the Pod for help in applying for the £150 Cost of Living payment. While I was there I met Nicole, who helped me apply for a grant towards my housing costs and a food parcel. I explained I was self-employed and she told me about two projects that could help me learn new skills and develop my business.
“The whole experience was fantastic. I would urge anyone who needs support, no matter what your situation, to pop in and see the team either at the library or on the bus. You will not be disappointed.”
The bus will be stopping off at local supermarket carparks, at planned events and will be parked outside schools from next week.
Councillor Jo Gauden, Torfaen Council’s Executive Member for Economy, Skills and Regeneration, said: “The new drop-in service has been very successful at providing residents with a full range of support, from immediate financial assistance to learning new skills and looking for work.
“The new bus means this vital service will now reach others. Visiting different communities will also mean our team is able to learn more about the challenges faced by people living in different areas so the support can be tailored to their needs.”
The CELT project is funded by the UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund. You can find out more about the fund here.
If you know of a local event or community group which would like to host the bus, please contact angela.price@torfaen.gov.uk
The Employment and Skills Advice Pod is available on the ground floor of Cwmbran Library every day between 9.30am and 4.30pm, except on Wednesdays when the library is closed. Anyone who needs advice can just call in. No appointment is necessary.