A new training initiative to boost sustainable employment opportunities in the North West has been launched by Trafford-based Procure Plus.

The ‘Standards Programme’, introduced by the social housing regeneration consortium, is designed to help individuals distant from the labour market secure sustainable employment in a variety of sectors.

The programme has been developed to help frontline workers from local employment and support groups better advise their clients in the search for employment and covers a wide range of skills. Sessions include topics such as assessing the work readiness of job seekers and helping candidates understand what it means to be responsible employees.

The Procure Plus Standards Programme is being delivered by Back on Track, a Manchester based charity experienced in providing education and advice around gaining employment, and has been independently accredited, meaning attendees will benefit from industry leading best practice.

Clare Meachem, regeneration manager at Procure Plus, commented: “There’s a real need for more investment in employment in the North West, so we decided to apply our experience in supporting candidates into work in the housing and construction industries to other sectors, so more people can benefit from our support.

“Through this initiative, Procure Plus is increasing the capacity of local support networks to deliver quality realistic employment and training outcomes, while improving the outlook for the job market across the region.”