Waterloo residents encouraged to REACH for their ambitions

 
Over 70 unemployed people and small businesses exchanged thoughts and ideas at the recent REACH event held at Oxo Tower Wharf, which was designed to provide useful information and skills needed to get a job in some of the many creative business sectors.  The event also helped change many of the perceptions that employers have of unemployed people in the area.

Some of the businesses offering help and advice to the eager attendees included the Young Vic, the Waterloo Arts and Events Network, Job Centre Plus and Helping Urban Business Ltd and included advice like developing a CV, moving from volunteering to gaining a permanent job, as well as specific support and advice available to job seekers.
 
There was also a specialist business support section available for people who wanted more information on starting up their own business.

"It's important that unemployed people are aware of the options that are available to them, to make them know that they can follow their passions,” remarks Lawrence Darani of Portfolio Training  “It was great to see people get so fired up and motivated.”
 
Arranged by South Bank Employers' Group the event was funded as a part of a two-year pan-London project by the Learning and Skills Council – in conjunction with lead partner Prevista Ltd as well as Barnet College.
 
The next event in the REACH schedule is due later in 2005 and will look at jobs in the care sector.