PEOPLE in North Somerset can get free employment and skills support thanks to a new service.
North Somerset Council (NSC) has launched Opportunity North Somerset, an independent service designed to help people improve their employment prospects, access education and training opportunities, gain new skills, and move closer to or into work.
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund until March 2026, the support is open to anyone aged 16 or over in the district who is not in paid work.
Opportunity North Somerset will offer one-to-one support and advice around job searching, training, confidence-building, and overcoming barriers to employment, and can also refer people to specialist partners when needed.
Residents start by completing a short self-assessment, followed by a session with a council skills advisor who offers impartial advice and referrals.
The scheme can also help businesses looking to recruit through promoting vacant job roles to the network.
Councillor Catherine Gibbons, deputy leader of NSC and cabinet member for children’s services, families and lifelong learning, said: “Whether you’re just starting out, returning to work after time away, or considering a change of direction, Opportunity North Somerset is here to help.
“We know every journey is different, and our aim is to provide personalised, practical support that builds confidence and creates real outcomes.”
Some people are already taking advantage of the service, including one 70-year-old, who said: “At the age of 70 and having been retired for three years, I wanted to return to work in a part-time capacity and in a relatively stress-free role.
“I also needed to create a CV that would accentuate the skills and experience I might have that suited me for that role.
“Opportunity North Somerset was extremely helpful and efficient from the beginning. The advice, including CV amendments, was first-class.
“I would advise anyone considering using Opportunity North Somerset not to hesitate. If the support I received from Leanne is anything to go by, they offer skilled, efficient, and effective assistance in finding suitable employment.”
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Another said: “I was looking for a job and for this I needed to make a Curriculum Vitae. I came to the library and met Catherine there. I don’t know English very well, but we talked for an hour, I didn’t even know that I could speak and understand English like that. Another friend of mine got a job thanks to her. I was also offered English courses.
“Catherine also always supports me morally; I always leave her in a good mood. My husband and I want to express our deep gratitude to Catherine for everything she has done for us, and of course we will recommend her to all our friends.”
Support on offer includes help with job applications, CVs, interviews, confidence building, English and digital skills training, and access to local education and employment opportunities.
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