Huge rise in over 50s needing the Job Centre prompts boost in support

Rochdale’s Job Centre is stepping up its efforts after it emerged that claimants over 50 have surged by 23% in just one year.

Figures also show a 12% rise among those aged 18-24 compared to last year, leading to an effort for more tailored support, connecting people with local jobs.

Local work coaches are providing tailored support designed to facilitate financial independence and improve local economic conditions.

“Our Rochdale work coaches are striving to support claimants by providing individual tailored support which is a springboard to financial independence, and a route to building a better life for themselves and their family,” said Jenny Stanton, DWP Partnership Manager.

“One of our main priorities is to ensure that we are connecting local people to local jobs, which in turn contributes to growing the economy.”

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is focusing on bridging the skills gap through several Sector Work Academies (SWAP) in Rochdale. These government-funded programmes offer comprehensive support, including financial assistance for travel, workwear, and tools where necessary.

Current initiatives include:

• Go North West (GNW) Bus Driving SWAP: In partnership with the Growth Company, this programme recently helped three individuals over 50 secure significant employment opportunities. A new GNW SWAP is planned for late September, offering participants a Level 1 in Customer Service and an internationally recognised PCV Licence.
• Realise Training SIA G4S SWAP: This sought-after programme addresses local demand for SIA (security industry authority) training and is expected to benefit participants through a partnership with a respected employer.
• JD Sports SWAP with the Princes Trust: Designed for 18 to 30-year-olds, this programme aims to assist young people starting their careers. Nine candidates have already been accepted following initial interviews.
• Upcoming SWAPs: This month will see the launch of additional Go North West SWAPs, a childcare SWAP with Chalk Education, and another security industry authority SWAP.

Rochdale Job Centre is also collaborating closely with Rochdale Health Alliance to recruit for primary care settings throughout Greater Manchester. Currently, a customer service SWAP is underway to find receptionists for GP surgeries.

Informal interviews for administrative roles in community settings, clinics, and other healthcare facilities will be held at Fleece Street JCP throughout September and October. The healthcare assistants (HCA) involved will also offer career advice for those interested in NHS roles.

An autumn jobs fair, organised jointly with Rochdale Council, will be held at Number One Riverside on 25 September.

Employers looking to fill vacancies are encouraged to contact Rochdale Jobcentre or Rochdale Council. Jobseekers can also consult their work coach for further information on available opportunities.

Parents receiving Universal Credit are eligible for assistance with childcare costs. Jobseekers are advised to explore job listings on the DWP ‘Find a Job’ website, which features thousands of available positions – www.gov.uk/find-a-job.