Employment scheme extended to help more people into work

The HIRE (Helping Improve Rural Employability) programme supports economically inactive individuals – those who have not been looking for work in the past four weeks and/or are not currently available to start work. The provision is now also open to young people who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), alongside adults.

Participants receive one-to-one guidance from a dedicated key worker to help build confidence, overcome barriers to employment, improve CVs and interview skills, explore job opportunities, apply for work, find volunteering placements, and access wider support services.

By the end of the programme, individuals are supported to move closer to employment or training - whether by starting work, entering education, volunteering, or actively job-seeking.

This initiative will run until March 2026 and continues to be delivered by the Rural Community Council.

Cllr Jo Asher, Cabinet lead for Culture, Leisure, Economy and Tourism, said: “The HIRE programme has already made a real difference to many lives across the Harborough district, helping people build confidence, develop new skills, and take positive steps towards employment.

“We are proud to extend this support, particularly with the new focus on young people and those not in education, employment or training. This tailored help is invaluable and ensures even more residents benefit from the programme’s success.”

For further details or to register interest in the programme, visit: www.ruralcc.org.uk/hire

This project has received £40,000 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which invests in communities and place, local business, and people and skills.

For more information, visit: www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus