Unemployed people in Cambridge with a disability or health condition are being offered a new course - thanks to a partnership between Jobcentre Plus and ASDA - that could help them back into work.

The retailer is currently recruiting for a number of jobs at its Cambridge store and wants to make sure that disability or long-term health problems do not prevent people applying or being successful at interview.

Jobcentre Plus and ASDA have worked together to set up a free two-week course for those who are out of work because of a health condition or disability, to help them have an equal chance at interview. It is the first time such a course has been run in the county.

Anyone who is interested can come to one of the friendly and informal information sessions being held from 10.00am to 12.00pm and from 2.00pm – 4.00pm on Friday 12 November at the Guildhall in the Market Square.

The course will run from 22 November to 3 December and anyone who completes it is guaranteed an interview with ASDA. It will cover a range of topics such as customer service, team working, health and hygiene, self-esteem and problem solving; and will give participants a good idea of what it is like to work for ASDA.

Candice Danleigh, Jobcentre Plus Employer Diversity Manager said:

“Many people with a disability or health condition would love to get back into work. However it can seem difficult, particularly if you’ve been out of work for a while, and understandably some people don’t know where to start.

Sometimes they’ve lost their confidence, and sometimes their disability or illness makes it harder for them at interview or in a job. However there are employers out there, like ASDA, that want a more diverse workforce and that work with us to offer people extra help and support.

I urge anyone who’s interested to get in touch and come to our no obligation information day.”

People can find out more about the information day and book a place by contacting Lynne Grisdale on 01223 458018 or sending an e-mail to lynne.grisdale@cambridge.gov.uk . Alternatively, you can write to her at Cherry Hinton Hall Learning Centre, Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge, CB1 8DW.