Work Avenue launches community’s first ‘coffee & connect’ drop-in for job seekers

Employment and business support charity Work Avenue is launching a bi-monthly coffee & connect drop-in morning for members of the community looking for work, following the success of a recent pilot event.

More than 20 people attended the trial session, marking the first initiative of its kind for the Jewish community. Many of those attending had recently been made redundant or were exploring their next career move.

Following overwhelmingly positive feedback from those in attendance, Coffee & Connect will now become a regular fixture – giving job-seekers the opportunity to meet Work Avenue’s employment and recruitment advisers over a drink, as well as build their networking skills.

The charity’s chief executive Debbie Lebrett said: “Looking for work can sometimes feel isolating, particularly after redundancy. Coffee & Connect provides a welcoming environment where people can access support, meet others in a similar situation and build their confidence.

“We know that not everyone feels comfortable booking a one-to-one appointment with one of our advisers straight away. The drop-in format allows people to come along with no pressure or commitment, have a chat with our team and discover the support available to them.”

The pilot event was focused on helping participants to access practical help – including information on training courses and positions available on the Work Avenue Jobs Board – as well creating valuable opportunities for peer support and networking.

One participant said: “I’m really glad I came. I made some contacts, networked, and most importantly found out about a few jobs that could be suitable for me.”

Another attendee added: “It was a real confidence boost after redundancy. It was great to meet people, both the advisers and people in a similar situation.”

• Coffee & Connect will take place every other month at the Wohl Enterprise Hub in Finchley Central. Attendees can come at any point during the morning, ask questions about their job search, explore career ideas and find out more about the support available through Work Avenue.