JOB seekers in the south of Middlesbrough will be able to find all the help they need to get started in the workplace under one roof.

A one-stop-shop for employment advice, Hemlington Works, was launched in the Hemlington Initiative Centre yesterday to encourage people to take the first step along the path to work.

Project manager Dawn Lloyd said: "It brings together a range of agencies all working to improve the prospects of people in the Hemlington, Coulby Newham, and Stainton and Thornton areas.

"We'll be able to offer advice on searching for a job, childcare, how to sell yourself to an employer either at an interview or on an application form and work and benefit entitlement.

"We put up displays from many of the partners and local voluntary groups and a range of family activities to attract as many residents to come along and see what we can offer them."

The project is funded by the Job Centre Plus European co-financing scheme and partners include Middlesbrough Council, Connexions, SureStart, the Pertemps employment agency and Hemlington Community Partnership.

Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Ashok Kumar performed the opening ceremony at the centre in Cass Road, Hemlington.

"We have record levels of employment, but there are still people who find it difficult to come back into the work market" he said.

"Hemlington Works will be aimed at these groups, and will combine a first class advice and counselling service for all users - under one roof."