City centre hub opens to support jobseekers

A new drop in hub, which has been created to support people looking for work in Exeter and the surrounding area, as part of post-pandemic economic recovery plans, opens in the city centre next week.

Exeter Works, which is a partnership between Exeter City Council and Exeter Chamber of Commerce, has joined with Devon County Council to provide a space where people searching for a job will be able to obtain face-to-face information and support. The hub, which will be based in Princesshay, will also offer opportunities for businesses to advertise vacancies and training opportunities.

Young people aged 16-24 will benefit from their own dedicated service, Youth Hub Devon, with specialist support and information available on employment, training and learning opportunities.

Devon County Council and Exeter Works have brought together more than 25 organisations, including the Jobcentre Plus, National Careers Service, CSW Group, Exeter College, recruitment agencies, local businesses and training providers to offer vital employment and training information to the public, to help the economic recovery of the Exeter and the wider Devon economy.

The hub will be based in the unit previously occupied by the Exeter Visitor Information Centre, which will be located to a new site in the city. Staff will be on hand to support people who are looking for a job or considering training for a new career. The opening of the hub follows the successful launch of the Exeter Works website in October.

David Bartram, Director, Exeter City Council said: “We know there are some sectors which have been more dramatically affected than others through the pandemic. Through our collaboration and working with our incredible sponsors and partner organisations we believe this joined up and proactive approach will be key to supporting people who are looking for work and help Exeter to build back better.

“We are pleased to be opening the doors to the hub and as the city starts to open up again, would encourage people who are searching for employment to visit.”

Keri Denton, Head of Economy, Enterprise and Skills, Devon County Council said: “By bringing these organisations together we can offer a one stop shop for young people who have lost their jobs due to the impact of the pandemic, or are moving out of education and in to the world of work for the first time. This has been a challenging time for us all and we hope by providing this new service we can achieve much more than any single organisation could. This investment by the County Council is part of a wider Recovery Plan we have worked on collectively as Team Devon”

Due to covid restrictions, visitors will initially need to book appointments. To do this, and for more information, visit www.exeterworks.org