A group of North Lanarkshire jobseekers have found the recipe for career success with the help of a local employment initiative.

Jacqueline Corrie from Motherwell and Jean Rodger and Jennifer Beaton, both from Coatbridge, have found work with the Time Capsule Leisure Centre in Coatbridge after taking part in a training programme organised under the North Lanarkshire’s Working banner.

The four-week course, delivered by North Lanarkshire Council’s Into Work North Lanarkshire initiative, provided the trainees with a comprehensive grounding in skills including customer service, first aid, and food hygiene.

Each trainee also had the chance to put their newfound training into practice during numerous sessions of hands-on training in the kitchen and behind the till.

After the course finished in mid-October, each trainee took up permanent employment in the Time Capsule’s canteen.

The North Lanarkshire’s Working project offers hard-to-reach groups including the long-term unemployed and lone parents a full support package to help them into employment.

North Lanarkshire Council, a vital partner organisation in the project, worked closely with the Time Capsule to identify staffing needs to deliver a targeted training programme.

New employee Jean Rodger, 53, said: “I’m delighted to be working for the Time Capsule. I was a bit nervous before I started the training course because I had been on Disability Allowance for nearly 20 years and wasn’t sure what to expect, but I enjoyed learning about the catering trade and developing new skills.

“I’m so pleased to be out of the house and meeting new people. I’d encourage anyone who’s been unemployed for a while to think about going back to work – it really is possible to find a rewarding job.”

A fourth trainee, Andrea Walker, from Cumbernauld, also completed the catering training programme before taking up a position in housekeeping at the Time Capsule.

Cllr Tom Maginnis, Convener, Regeneration Services Committee, said: “We’re pleased to have been able to help these four people into employment.

”The North Lanarkshire’s Working Employability Service is committed to offering help and support to all local people who require it, from school leavers keen to find their first job to long-term unemployed who are looking to get back into the job market.

“There are more opportunities out there than people might realise, and we’re ideally placed to help them to unlock their potential and find a career which suits them.”

To find out more about job opportunities and training through North Lanarkshire's Working call 0800 0730 226 or go to www.lanarkshiresworking.co.uk