Gorton Market shows east Manchester residents where to shop for jobs and training

A new free ‘Jobs and Training’ stall at Gorton Indoor Market, funded by New East Manchester and Learn Net, has helped over 100 local residents in its opening week.

The trained staff at Gorton 'Jobshop', which opened on 11 February, offer assistance in finding suitable job training and can advise on potential work opportunities. Staff can also direct residents to other services which can help with numeracy and literacy skills, money matters, self employment and volunteering opportunities.

Supported by Eastlands Homes, the stall is open every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9am until 4.30pm, and no appointment is needed.

Sean McGonigle, Director of Regeneration for New East Manchester, said: "This is a way of helping residents find job and training opportunities in a friendly and informal setting. We attracted over 100 people in the first week which is a great start and we have secured a unit in the new Indoor Gorton Market so that east Manchester residents can continue to make the most of this service and find employment or training as a result."

Kath Hett, Manager of New East Manchester's Job Brokerage team, said: "This is really exciting for us to work from such a unique venue. The fact that so many people have shown an interest in what we are doing in such a short time is fantastic. This is a great opportunity for local people to get help while they are shopping."

For more information call Carol Littlewood or Lyn Egan 0161 371 7222 or visit http://www.neweastmanchester.com/

Media contact:

Michael Travers, tel 0161 223 1155