Jobseekers in Pembrokeshire have given their overwhelming approval to a new scheme aimed at helping them to apply for jobs online.

Computer-based job clubs have been set up at Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock and Tenby Libraries.

And feedback from participants shows that nearly nine out of ten of them feel the sessions have helped them with job searching.

The job clubs have been established thanks to partnership working between Pembrokeshire libraries, Citizens Advice and Jobcentreplus.

Clr. Elwyn Morse, cabinet member for culture, sport and leisure, said: “The job clubs have been a fantastic success and have provided new ways for the three organisations to reach new clients.

“There is a significant need in Pembrokeshire for IT access and support; therefore it seemed natural for libraries, Citizens Advice and Jobcentreplus to work together.”

Jobseekers are referred onto the job clubs by their work coaches in the Jobcentreplus. The sessions enable them to improve their computer skills, learn how to apply for jobs online and improve their skills ready for a move into paid employment.

From April 2015 to March 2016, the attendance figures were 1,533, including repeat visits by some customers. Of those who completed an evaluation form, 87 per cent felt that the session helped them to be better prepared to deal with job searching.

Universal Credit, which was introduced for single people late last year, has three core requirements: an account with Universal Jobmatch website, an email account and a CV.

Ninety-three per cent of participants said the sessions had given them greater confidence in using at least one out of three core requirements, and in many instances they had achieved two or three of the requirements.

Clr. Elwyn Morse said: “These figures all represent a huge success story and clearly demonstrate the positive effect that public libraries can have on people’s lives.

“It is also evident that the job club sessions are effective and are continuing to have a positive impact on clients.”

Debbie Reynolds, work services manger of Milford Haven Jobcentreplus, said: “The job club is beneficial for both Jobcentreplus staff and customers. Staff like the informal environment and feel they are really helping customers by offering hands on jobsearch support and customers like the practical support they are getting, for example, being shown how to get the best out of Universal Jobmatch, using and registering on popular jobsearch websites, creating and sending CVs and gaining confidence using the computers to become competent jobseekers.”

Tomos Waters delivers the job clubs on behalf of Citizens Advice Pembrokeshire. He said: “The need for the job clubs has been overwhelming as clients seek help to meet the minimum requirements put in place by Welfare Reforms. 

“However, the job clubs have evolved into much more; they are a place where people can mix with others in a similar situation, share experiences and advice as well as increasing their self esteem and confidence.

“Many of the clients we help have never touched a computer, let alone used them to apply for jobs. With the help of Citizens Advice combined with Jobcentre staff, we are enabling clients to take small steps forward, empowering them to help themselves.”

He added: “In the UK, four out of five jobs are only advertised online, so if you’re not online you are missing out. But there are many other reasons to get online too, cheaper energy tariffs, online shopping savings, social inclusion are all benefits of being digitally included.”