Free employability support at Swadlincote event

Collage of two photos. On the left, two women standing at table with green table cloth and white Groundwork logo, right photo shows man and woman talking and laughing in front of Burton and South Derbyshire College.

Regional charity Groundwork Five Counties are hosting a free drop-in employability event on 22nd January 10am – 2pm at Sharpe’s Pottery Museum. The event is for unemployed adults in South Derbyshire to get support into work, boost their confidence, or explore their future.

This friendly event named ‘Find Your Way’ is in collaboration with South Derbyshire District Council and Burton and South Derbyshire College, and offers a range of advice services.

Groundwork’s fully funded Beyond Barriers programme offers tailored advice to help people find work, gain new skills, improve their mental health, apply for benefits, and more. The service is fully bespoke to the person’s interests and needs, with 1-to-1 advice available for as long as the individual needs.

The council will be showcasing their new Active Futures project which supports people to get active, develop their skills and increase their employability through 1-2-1 and group mentoring sessions.

Event attendees can explore the adult learning courses available through the College, including Maths, English, and professional courses – many of which are free through the National Skills Fund.

Groundwork’s Green Doctors will also be in attendance to help you save money on energy bills, use energy more efficiently at home, and access any further support you may need – from debt advice to emergency fuel and food.

The event is completely free and open to all.

Michelle Baron, Partnership & Delivery Manager at Groundwork, says: “Start 2026 right with a new job or training course!

“Whether you already know exactly what you want to do or are unsure – it’s always a good idea to get advice. We’re here for everyone, regardless of how long you’ve been out of work or what hurdles you might be experiencing.

“Come along for a friendly, informal atmosphere and you may walk out with a whole new perspective on the future. There is no need to book, just pop it in your diary and we look forward to seeing you on 22nd January between 10am – 2pm.”

The event is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, awarded to Groundwork Five Counties by South Derbyshire District Council.

More information about the event can be found on the website: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/find-your-way