MEMBERS of a job club, which aims to get more people with learning disabilities employed in Basingstoke, have completed a four-week employability course.

The ASPIRE Job Club was set up by Basingstoke Mencap and The Rotary Club of Basingstoke as a way to work with jobseekers with learning disabilities, and local employers.

Only nine per cent of people with learning disabilities are employed in Hampshire, meaning that a large number of young people with learning disabilities are leaving schools and colleges with very limited opportunities.

The course, which was supported by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Sainsbury’s, and the Sports Centre, in Festival Place, provided information about how to make members more employable, as well as information on customer service and interview skills.

The final session also introduced members to the basics of health and safety in the workplace.

Members received a certificate of completion which can be presented to prospective employers they will meet through a job matching process.

The ASPIRE Job Club takes place every Wednesday at The Orchard, in White Hart Lane, Basingstoke, between 9.30am and 11.30am.