Councillor commends SRC course

Dromore Councillor Olive Mercer is commending the Southern Regional College ‘Employ Me’ programme, beginning its final year this coming September.

The programme is aimed at supporting the unemployed in the Southern Region and is free to learners.

Students train at their local college and achieve a recognised qualification. Joining will not affect benefits and financial assistance with childcare and travel expenses for class and work placements is available. Attendance is part-time, less than 16 hours per week over 25 weeks; a one day a week industry work placement is incorporated.

Courses are offered at Newry, Kilkeel, Portadown, Lurgan, Banbridge and Armagh depending on demand. Participants will also be offered support in Essential Skills, computers and food safety; there will also be careers advice, information and guidance, personal development and guest speakers.

Business Administration is currently timetabled for the Banbridge campus but will depend on numbers secured.

Said Councillor Mercer: “I would recommend this course to anyone who is unemployed and wants to gain the necessary skills and confidence to return to the workplace.

“Several previous participants have been offered permanent positions on completion of their work placement and course.”