Job seekers who have spent months looking for work in Bradford are being helped to secure employment in the care sector thanks to a new scheme run by charity Age UK.

A total of 18 people are taking part in the pilot four-week programme which offers health and social care training as well as advice on writing CVs and interview tips.

All of the participants, who have been put forward for the scheme by Jobcentre Plus, are guaranteed an interview with domiciliary care company Caremark, which is also providing training sessions, after they have finished the course.

Elaine Appleyard, of Age UK Training, said the response to the programme had been “overwhelming” with people coming from a diverse range of backgrounds to take part.

She said: “It’s a real creative opportunity to get people into a job. We are aiming at real jobs. The training we provide is all work-based learning that provides people with the skills they need for employment.”

Training instructor Stephanie Kozlow said: “I am delighted with the success of this course. I believe our customers have been remarkable and have demonstrated fantastic commitment, dedication and enthusiasm during their time at Age UK Training.”

Claire Meade, of Caremark, said: “Home care is a sector which is seeing a significant growth through individuals having the choice of residential care, or care in the home from the option of live in care to a few hours of care and support.

“What Caremark wants to do is attract more male and mature carers so we want people who would never have considered care to apply.”

Figures released by the Office of National Statistics last month showed almost six per cent of people in Bradford were out of work with 18,583 people claiming Job Seekers Allowance, up 452 from December.

For more information about Age UK Training call (01274) 740593.