New College Shop Set To Challenge Unemployment & Redundancies

Accrington & Rossendale College (accross) has teamed up with Hyndburn Borough Council to launch a one-stop information shop in Accrington Town Centre which will tackle unemployment and those affected by redundancy as well as youngsters not in employment, education or training and businesses with training needs.

The College Shop, situated at 54 Broadway, opened on Saturday 9 May 2009 with Rock FM’s Adam Catterall hosting the event, playing music and entertaining the community.  Rock FM’s street team was also in attendance in the town centre and a whole range of activities took place throughout the day to entertain the crowds.

Staff from the College were also on hand to give advice about training and assessment opportunities, as well as offering careers advice and guidance.

College Principal, Stephen Carlisle explained the purpose of the shop, “Anyone who reads the newspapers knows how Hyndburn has been hit by the credit crunch and the College Shop is a positive reaction to these events.” 

“The College Shop will offer accessible advice, guidance, retraining and reskilling for people of all ages.   The College Shop really does have something for everyone no matter what your age or experience. “

Council Leader, Cllr Peter Britcliffe says, “This council has a firm commitment to giving the residents of Hyndburn the best opportunities and services possible, which is why we’ve entered into a partnership with Accrington & Rossendale College to combat worklessness and help people who have been made redundant, or who are struggling to find training and employment.”

“We are confident that the services on offer here will help people get jobs, or find training opportunities which will lead to jobs and make a real, tangible difference in their lives.”

On the day of the opening there were a number of activities for people to get involved in along with the chance to win prizes and vouchers for the College’s Seasons Salon and Traders Brasserie.