Croydon: L&Q and partners give community a helping hand to find jobs

L&Q recently joined forces with housing associations across London to provide help to the unemployed in Croydon with a free careers advice event: Jobs+ Ways into Work. Mayor of Croydon Cllr. Avril Slipper showed her support by officially opening the event held at Fairfield Halls in Croydon.

The event was a joint partnership between L&Q, affordable housing provider Affinity Sutton, AmicusHorizon, Chequers Contract Services, Croydon Churches Housing Association, Hexagon Housing Association, Hyde Group, Viridian Housing, Wandle Housing Association, Wealden Services and Smith and Byford. 

With unemployment figures at record highs across the UK, the event was a great opportunity for those struggling to find work or wishing to start their own business to get advice from industry experts. Representatives from more than 30 organisations, including local colleges, recruitment agencies, training organisations and potential employers, were on hand to provide essential support and guidance. To gain practical assistance on finding training and employment, visitors attended workshops that focused on areas such as completing application forms and perfecting a CV. 

The free event was open to everyone in the community. L&Q and a number of its contractors offered work experience and volunteer opportunities to visitors and were available to offer advice on the application process. Representatives from IAG and Job Centre Plus offered advice and guidance to people in areas such as debt management and welfare benefits for those seeking employment.  

Asif Chisty, Neighbourhood Investment Officer at L&Q, said; “We were delighted to hold our Jobs+ event for the second year with our partners. The event proved to be a great success with many people reporting that the practical advice and guidance available to them at Jobs+ was very useful. L&Q is committed to the local community and we will continue to support people to find employment in any way we can.”