A SALVATION Army branch has welcomed MP Julian Smith to its Employment Plus Centre to show him how the church is supporting those looking for work.

Employment Plus, led by Ripon Salvation Army is a means of providing support to those not in employment through guidance, support and training.

Beginning in Ripon in July 2012, and running on a weekly basis since then, the services are open to all of the local community, both through a drop-in service and personal appointments.

The Commanding Officer of Ripon Corps, Territorial Envoy Stephanie Ruddy, said, “We’re thrilled to welcome Julian Smith MP to our Employment Plus service.

“We have trained HR and IT professionals to help with everything from computing, job applications, interview help and general advice.”

“As well as CVs and covering letters, we provide people with the confidence they need when they are looking for and starting work.

“Our volunteers are our lifeblood – they engage with a wide variety of clients of all ages, and have first-hand experience in dealing with the difficult circumstances jobseekers face.”

The Conservative MP for Skipton and Ripon said “It’s great to see The Salvation Army responding to the needs of people actively seeking work with such a fantastic initiative like Employment Plus.

“The fantastic thing about The Salvation Army’s help is that it focuses on people – the volunteers have experiences that can help their clients, and there’s a generosity of both time and spirit there, which stems from the ethos of the organisation.”

For more information contact the Ripon centre on 01765-692657 or Stephanie.ruddy@salvationarmy.org.uk.