DWP supporting people of all ages to reach their full potential

This week’s employment statistics show strong progress, including a significant achievement for people aged 50 and over, with 100 individuals returning to work — contributing to a 9% reduction in unemployment for this group.

Julie Pritchard from the Northamptonshire Employer Adviser team said: “Right now, we’re seeing vacancies across almost every sector, including apprenticeship opportunities.

With spring just around the corner, we’re ready to support even more jobseekers and employers.

We’re also boosting youth employment opportunities, as shown by Kettering Jobcentre hosting a highly successful Apprenticeship Event.”

Kettering Jobcentre Showcases Youth Success During National Apprenticeship Week

Kettering Jobcentre marked National Apprenticeship Week with a major Apprenticeship Event attracting over 210 visitors, including residents, students, employers and training providers. Organisations across health and social care, engineering, digital, construction, teaching and local government offered pathways into apprenticeships, skills training and employment.

The National Careers Service delivered personalised guidance, and students from Creating Tomorrow College joined other young attendees to explore career routes. The team also ran a dedicated session for customers with complex health conditions, offering specialist support in a quieter setting.

Partners from Kettering Learning Centre brought two apprentices who supported registrations and shared their experiences — describing apprenticeships as a chance to “earn while you learn” and “reinvent yourself at any age.”

Mayor of Kettering praises the event

The Worshipful Mayor of Kettering attended the entire event and described it as: “A really good event, with good employers offering opportunities that can lead to careers, not just basic roles. It had a great turnout and excellent engagement.”

Early feedback suggests several attendees are already progressing towards positive outcomes.

Sarah Passam of Kettering Jobcentre said: “We are incredibly proud of what was achieved. The dedication and teamwork of our Work Coaches, Disability Employment Advisers and colleagues created a buzzing atmosphere throughout the day. We’re grateful to all our partners, employers and providers for sharing such fantastic opportunities.”

Kettering Jobcentre continues to welcome interest from employers, training providers and community organisations interested in future events or partnership opportunities.

Visit: www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk

Contact The Learning Centre: 01536 413304

National Comment

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, said: “Today's figures show there are 381,000 more people in work since the start of 2025, but we know there is more to do.

Our £1.5 billion drive to tackle youth unemployment is a key priority, and this month we announced new measures to help young people find and secure apprenticeships — alongside our investment to create 50,000 new apprenticeship opportunities.

We’re also meeting people where they are — trebling the number of Jobcentres on Wheels, bringing a Youth Hub to every area in Great Britain, and giving every young person the chance to earn or learn through our Youth Guarantee.”