A COURSE which helps to teach residents across Wyre Forest digital skills so they can find jobs is flourishing.
The Digital Skills Pathway forms part of the Building Brighter Futures programme delivered by UNITY at Community Housing and was given a grant by Wyre Forest District Council.
The course runs several times a year, and takes half a day per week for six weeks to cover a range of key digital skills.
It has taught residents how to spot online scams, use online banking, and apply for jobs.
Esther Smart completed the course and received her certificate at a recent celebration event.
She gained digital skills and a significant boost of confidence which helped her secure a new job as a passenger assistant.
Esther said: “I had agoraphobia and was at home for three years.
“Before the course, I was considering a job where I wouldn’t have to speak because I was too afraid of people.
“On the Digital Skills Pathway course, I met nice people and interacted again.
“The confidence it gave me helped me to get a job that I absolutely love.”
The skills that she gained were crucial to securing her new job and she had to apply online as well as her payslip is also online.
Diana Hurp, team leader at UNITY, added: “Our dedicated team of Job Coaches are proud to support Esther, Gillian, and all participants with personalised advice and training to help them secure sustainable employment and enhance their career prospects.
“Thanks to UK government funding through Wyre Forest District Council, we can offer this valuable service which is greatly appreciated by residents across Wyre Forest.”
Councillor Dan Morehead, cabinet member for economic regeneration, planning and the green agenda, said: “It’s important that we do all that we can to help to build a brighter future for all residents across the district.
“We’re delighted to support the programme run by UNITY at Community Housing to help deliver that vision so successfully which not only helps the individuals taking part, but also the wider community moving forwards.”
