An employability skills organisation is developing employment programmes to help more Cumbria residents land jobs.

After identifying a need in the care sector, Inspira is supporting Westmorland and Furness Council recruit Care Support Workers.

Cllr Patricia Bell, cabinet member for Adults, Health and Care at Westmorland and Furness Council, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for those who are looking for work and considering a new career to explore what working in care with the council could look like.

"It is a hugely rewarding career that can last a lifetime or open up the doors to other opportunities in care such as social work.

"We are delighted to be working with Inspira to help candidates have the best chance of success both before applying and whilst in the role. We encourage eligible people that may be interested to contact the number below.”

Amy Lowry, recruitment manager for Care Services at Westmorland and Furness Council, described how working with Inspira has enabled the council to reach a new candidate population.

She said: "Working with Inspira on our upcoming employment course has enabled us to connect with a new candidate audience, that previously may have assumed a career in care, or with the Council, wouldn’t be accessible to them.

The Westmorland Gazette: Amy Lowry said described how working with Inspira has enabled the council to reach a new candidate

"It also provides us with the opportunity to work directly within our communities across Westmorland and Furness, highlighting the Council’s offer as an employer and to generate an awareness of what a career in care can look like with Westmorland and Furness Council.”

Courses for potential care workers are scheduled between February 26 and March 5 in Barrow, and March 4 to 12 in Kendal.

Completing these programmes offers an understanding of available roles, and equips participants with the necessary skills to navigate the recruitment process.

Money management skills are also covered, crucial to remaining employed in the long haul.

Inspira, supported by Westmorland and Furness Council, has recently expanded their audience to young adults aged 16 to 25 who are not in education, employment or training.

The Westmorland Gazette: Julia Winder said tailored employment programmes serve as a resource to help job seekers land the

The extension of their existing programme, 'The Key', utilises £615,066 granted by the council from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Julia Winder, area operations manager at Inspira, said: "Our tailored employment programmes serve as an excellent resource to help job seekers land the right job, while also providing the necessary support they need to be successful throughout the recruitment process.

"The relationships we are forging will have a positive impact now and in the future.”