A NEW service aimed at helping people from Chorley back into work is already proving a success.

The Chorley Works programme specifically targets local people aged 25 and over who are claiming Job Seekers Allowance and helps them update their skills and gives them the chance to get back into the workplace.

It was launched earlier this year by Chorley Council working in partnership with Lancashire County Council.

Now, six of the Chorley Works candidates, who have just completed their WorkStart placements, have all been offered work contracts with their placement providers.

Councillor Alistair Bradley, Chorley Council leader, said: “This is really good news that we’ve managed to get six people into work and off Job Seekers Allowance so quickly. It proves that the Chorley Works programme has the power to change lives for the better.

“We’ve also got another eight currently on placements and things are looking good for them too.

“I cannot emphasise enough that one of our main priorities is to create a strong local economy and one of the ways we can do that is by helping people back into work because then they have the spending power to contribute to the local economy.”

County Councillor Jennifer Mein, leader of the county council, said: "We're pleased that our scheme to get people back into work has been directly helping people from Chorley.

“This has led to permanent jobs for some of the people taking part. We wish them well in their work.

"Chorley Works in partnership with the county council's WorkStart programme gives people who’ve had a career break, whether through choice or because they were made redundant; the chance to update their skills and gain new experience. It also builds their confidence and self-belief, and helps them to overcome any barriers they feel they may have in getting back to work."

The programme specifically targets the over 25s because until this programme, there had been very little support and training for this age group, unlike the under 25s.

Councillor Bradley added: “As far as we know Chorley Council was the first council to take on an employability officer to target this specific group of people, so we’re leading the way in helping people back into work. I would urge anyone aged over 25 who’s claiming Job Seekers Allowance to contact the council on 01257 515151 to see what help, advice and support we can offer