Event tackles unemployment problems (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Event tackles unemployment problems

12:12pm Saturday 1st September 2012 in News By Alexandra Rucki

An event took place yesterday in a bid to tackle unemployment figures in the borough.

Tooting Works was organised by MP Sadiq Khan as well as a number of businesses, and took place in South Thames College, Tooting High Street.

Hundreds of unemployed people attended the event, with about 2,200 people believed to be unemployed in Tooting.

South Thames College, city recruitment consultants and Job Centre Plus were on hand to give advice, help with CVs and job applications.

Employers were also advertising vacancies in retail, accountancy, media and other sectors.

Shadow Business Secretary Chuka Umunna spoke about his thoughts on what needs to be done to tackle unemployment and job shortages.

He said: "So many people in Tooting and my own constituency are finding it incredibly difficult, despite their very best efforts, to get work.

"Some businesses are receiving hundreds of applicants for a single vacancy and I know many young people are finding it difficult to keep up hope.

"My message to those struggling to find work is to keep faith, keep trying and don’t give up. Attending Jobs Fairs like this one that Sadiq is hosting is a great way to give yourself the best possible chance in a very challenging economic climate."

Mr Khan likened the situation to unemployment problems in Tooting, which he experienced in the 1980s.

He said: "This generation of young people who are struggling right now are one of the best educated ever, they have skills, energy and resourcefulness that will benefit employers, but there are barriers in the way. 

"Not everyone’s great at writing a CV or filling in a job application - Tooting Works will help people overcome these barriers and unleash their potential."

Sue Rimmer, principal of South Thames College, said: "We are delighted to be able to work with our local MPs in addressing the serious issue of youth unemployment. 

"Our commitment is to provide education and training that enables young people to develop the skills, knowledge and technical ability that employers are looking for and to improve the life chances of this vibrant community."