Six steps to picking the right career path ahead of National Careers Week
FINDING your first job can be the toughest move you make on your career path.
Deciding what you want to do, then working out how to get started is so daunting that 15 per cent of young people put off seeking a new job at all, according to new research from recruitment firm Michael Page.
But help is at hand. Next week is National Careers Week, with schools and colleges across the UK highlighting career choices for young people.
We invited Rachel Campbell, senior regional director at Page Personnel, to help you pick the right career path.
She says: “Having too much choice can become confusing when looking for a new career.
“Also, pressures from family members and friends often make it harder to make that first step. It’s important to remember, the decision’s in your hands.”
Find out more at and.
jobspot
NON-PROFIT group Housing 21 is hiring 25 care workers for its retirement housing and extra-care apartments. Find out more at .
Workers virus rights
CORONAVIRUS fears have seen offices and schools go into lockdown this week. So what are your rights in your workplace?
Here’s the latest advice from employment specialist Acas CEO, Susan Clews. She says: “There are concerns around how to deal with its impact on UK work places.”
jobspot
PLYMOUTH’S Princess Yachts needs apprentice carpenters, engineers and welders plus newcomers in composites, computer-aided design, IT and business admin. Apply at .
Tackling epilepsy stigma
EPILEPSY affects one in 100 people – yet just a third of those with the condition are in work.
By contrast, more than half of all disabled people (53 per cent) work and 81 per cent of the wider public. A new campaign by Epilepsy Action aims to get more sufferers into work.
Neil Grant, 57, calls his two-year hunt for work a “demoralising experience”. After mentioning his condition when interviewing for a kitchen porter job, he was told by the interviewer: “No, I want someone 100 per cent and normal.”
Neil, from Oxfordshire, says: “The comment hurt far more than being rejected for the job. It’s so horrible just sitting at home.
“I want to work but it’s so hard getting past the interviews when they find out I have epilepsy. I wish someone would give me a chance.” Philip Lee, of Epilepsy Action, says: “Epilepsy is still stigmatised in the workplace. We call on employers to take simple steps to help support people with epilepsy . . . improve workplace culture and create a level playing field to help people with epilepsy pursue the career they want.”
Can you offer Neil an interview? If so, email jane.hamilton@the-sun.co.uk.
Apprentices wanted
UNITED Utilities is on the lookout for 40 new recruits to join its 2020 apprenticeship programme.
Roles are based across the North West, with opportunities for scientists, tanker drivers, data analysts, trainee buyers and water network experts.
A spokeswoman for the provider says: “As the North West’s water and wastewater company, United keeps the taps flowing and the toilets flushing for three million homes.”
Find out more at unitedutilities. com/apprenticeships. Candidates must apply by March 8.
Changing lives
CAREERS adviser Julie Maling passionately believes she can transform opportunities for her clients.
She says: “I meet so many people from all walks of life. Helping them make life-changing decisions is special.
She adds: “Seeing a client progress into an apprenticeship, employment or a further learning opportunity makes the job very rewarding.”
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