Sunderland support network is Just the Job

Feb 8 2010 by Karen Dent, The Journal

A SUPPORT network for unemployed people keen to start their own enterprise or who are seeking work has opened for business in Sunderland.

Just the Job brings together support services across the city under one roof. The initiative is being promoted by people who have successfully started their own business or secured work by using the support available on Wearside.

Coun Paul Watson, leader of Sunderland City Council which is co-ordinating the scheme, said: “Just the Job will ensure that support services for those out of work in the city are packaged together – making it simple and straightforward to access assistance.”

Just the Job is part of the Working Neighbourhoods programme, which was launched by the Government in 2008 to boost enterprise, training and employment in the UK’s most disadvantaged communities.

Kevin Cooke, who features in the advertising campaign, started his locksmith and property maintenance firm with advice from the North East Business & Innovation Centre (BIC) in Sunderland.

He said: “The support I received was really helpful. The fact that the different services have all been brought together should make it much easier for people looking for work or support in starting up an enterprise to access advice and assistance, and will hopefully put them on the right path to building a successful career.”