A NEW jobs scheme aims to help jobseekers struggling to apply for jobs after being stuck at home for a long time.

Employability provider, Ingeus, celebrated the launch of its new Restart Scheme training centre in Bolton with an open day.

Funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, the Restart Scheme will support jobseekers, referred to the programme by Jobcentre Plus work coaches, in overcoming employment barriers and securing sustainable work.

The barriers could be people stuck at home for a long time, who may find it difficult to get into a work routine.

Some may lack confidence or may not know how to apply for jobs online as people who have worked at the same place for years could have been made redundant during the first lockdown. There may be a disability preventing people from finding jobs or things like childcare responsibilities.

Cllr Hillary Fairclough, borough council deputy leader, said: “It was a pleasure to visit the Restart Scheme to learn more about Ingeus’s work and the support they can offer residents experiencing long-term unemployment.

“The scheme has been running since June and is already having a positive impact. Bolton Council is committed to making the borough more active, connected and prosperous. A big part of that is ensuring local employers have access to a skilled local workforce and that residents can find long-term fulfilling work.”

Cllr Fairclough joined DWP officials and partner at the open day to find out more about how they will be helping unemployed residents to find work.

The open day chiefly showcased the Restart Scheme. Restart advisors ran through the variety of one-to-one support they are able to offer participants.

This can include access to exclusive vacancies with local employers, assistance in applying for jobs, training, and advice on housing, childcare, changes to benefit allowances and managing personal finances, where appropriate.

There was also a demonstration of iWorks, the Ingeus’ careers portal, showcasing its CV screening tool, interview practice application and library of more than 900 free online training courses.