A NEW work club is being launched in Runcorn.

It will be set up in Palacefields after many residents at a similar scheme in Halton Brook have found jobs and training opportunities.

Social landlord Riverside has contributed £1,740 towards the club which starts on Wednesday, May 7, 3.30pm -5.30pm, at Palacefields community centre.

Residents will have free internet access and support from Halton Employment Partnership in how to search for jobs, change careers, identify skills, as well as advice on access to education and training.

Vanessa Shaw, Riverside’s community engagement officer in Halton, said: “The Halton Brook work club is a real success story. “We have new members joining us every week. Many people still do not have online access at home and they struggle to get online at libraries, because of costs and high demand.”

Rebecca Parkinson, 31, aged from Halton Brook, is now planning to start her own sewing business after visiting the work club.

She said: “I wasn’t sure who to speak to everyone I met at the work club was really helpful. I’m now busy developing my website and searching for funding.”

Riverside hopes residents in Palacefields will be just as successful.

Vanessa added: “We’re hoping to encourage a community spirit, as well as the chance to meet local employers recruiting in the area.”

Riverside is also looking for digital champions to help people develop their IT skills at community venues across Halton.

Vanessa said: “You don’t have to be a computer whizz kid, just someone who uses the internet regularly and can share skills with others. We provide training, so it’s a great way to gain a qualification and help people with digital literacy. It’s also a good way to boost your own confidence and improve your job prospects.”

For more information call Vanessa Shaw on 07527 382946 or e-mail vanessa.shaw@riverside.org.uk.