I've just attended an event organised by our local chamber of commerce for out of work professionals, having received a letter from them because I'm registered with the Job Centre.
http://www.kingston.gov.uk/browse/le...ve_futures.htm
The local MP attended and started off by saying he was glad there was such a good turnout (over 100 people there), I guess he didn't really mean to say that.
The good things were that the event was held in the Holiday Inn and refreshments and lunch was provided, all for free. Most of the attendees wore suits (must be a pride thing) and came from a wide range of sector backgrounds with a couple of former directors of reasonably large companies amongst us.
There were presentations from around 15 companies, many of which were receiving government grants to assist out of work professionals. The range of companies could broadly be put in to:-
1. CV re-writers, job seeking tips, 1 to 1 sessions
2. Life coaches
3. Business startups
4. Skills providers (IT, presentation, business)
After the event, we were given feedback forms in which we chose 1 of 3 options. Option 1 being for those who wanted to be employed, Option 2 for those who want to be self-employed(which I'm keen on) and Option 3 for those who'd like to start a business but also find work in the meantime. Dependent on which option we chose, we'll then be invited to attend workshops and coaching sessions relevant to our choice free of charge.
They've also arranged a curry & wine night (costs £5).
As much as I dislike the government for getting us in to this mess, fair dues to them for providing practical help to get us back in to work.
This was the 3rd event that they'd organised and the follow on events will occur during the next month, with some of the companies allowing walk-in advice at any time.
