A COUNCIL has put together a package of online help and advice for people facing redundancy or looking for a career change.

Darlington Borough Council has created the web page to offer a one-stop shop style summary of advice and available training.

It includes details of free training, as well as courses and advice to suit everyone, regardless of experience, education or career plan.

• The council’s learning and skills team offers free online courses that can help prepare people for the world of work or a career change.

• Tees Valley Routes to Work helps support long term unemployed adults over the age of 30 whose personal circumstances make it difficult to find a job. Support is provided on a 1-1 basis based on individual needs to help overcome any barriers and provide support back into the workplace.

• Younger people aged 16-29 can check out the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI). The team can help with employment, education or training.

In addition, the National Careers Service online advice and help on looking and applying for work.

Local businesses can also take advantage of the Kickstart scheme which offers incentives to employ young people aged 16-24 on a six-month placement. Darlington Citizen’s Advice Bureau also offers help for those facing redundancy and can help people to claim the benefits they are entitled to.

Free workshops are available for people who want to find out more about a career in warehousing or distribution. These are delivered by Darlington College who also provide employability courses in retailing, digital skills, social care and LGV driving.

Councillor Alan Marshall, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “It is vitally important that we can offer support and advice to those who need it.

"As unemployment rises nationally, there is increasing uncertainty amongst many people that they could lose their job; with this follows a loss of income and increased stress and anxiety.

“We want to send the message out loud and clear that there is help out there, both locally and through national schemes such as Kickstart, to people who are out of work and for those who are just about to start their career.

“We’ve packaged together, on one webpage, the help that is available, one click could be all that it takes to get a career back on track or to make a start in the world of work.”

Details are available at www.darlington.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers