Out of work and need a hand getting back into the job market?

A new $15-million employment and skills training program can help unemployed British Columbians gain the skills, confidence and experience needed to find employment.

"There are unemployed British Columbians who are determined to do anything they can to find gainful employment, and this program will give them a helping hand in getting back into the job market," said Ida Chong, Minister of Regional Economic and Skills Development. "B.C.'s economic success depends on having a well-educated, highly skilled workforce, and Job Options BC is one more step in building the foundations for that success."

The Province is providing $15 million each fiscal year for Job Options BC - a program that consists of four to six weeks of facilitated group work followed by an additional four to six weeks of work experience, preparing participants for new employment, or when appropriate, further training. When needed, individuals completing the program can also
access up to six months of additional support to help them succeed.

"Through the Canada-B.C. Labour Market Agreement, we are helping to build a skilled, trained and capable workforce," said the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. "Programs such as Job Options BC are vital to ensuring all Canadians have the essential skills they need to get good jobs and build better futures."

Job Options BC builds on two successful and proven programs, the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers program and the Return to Work Employment Program pilot. Eligible participants for Job Options BC are unemployed, and not currently Employment Insurance (EI) clients.

Under the Canada/BC Labour Market Agreement (LMA), the Government of Canada is providing the Province with approximately $66 million annually until 2013-14. Through a variety of programs and services, this funding increases access to training for unemployed individuals who are not currently EI clients, including those who are underrepresented in the labour market. Funding also supports programs/services for employed individuals who are low-skilled, or who require recognized credentials to reach their full potential in the current marketplace.

For more information on Job Options BC or the LMA, visit:
http://www.aved.gov.bc.ca/job_options_bc/welcome.htm.