Council Leader visits Get Oldham Working to see support in action
Oldham Council Leader, Cllr Arooj Shah, visited Get Oldham Working (GOW) to see how the team is helping local people into jobs, training and long-term careers.
Since launching in 2013, GOW has created over 20,500 opportunities, with more than 15,800 people moving into work, apprenticeships or training. Each year, the service supports between 6,000 and 7,000 Oldham residents from all backgrounds.
Cllr Shah met staff and service users to find out more about how GOW offers help with CV writing, job applications, interview skills and mental health support. The service also runs a Working Wardrobe, which gives people free clothes for interviews to help boost their confidence.
Cllr Arooj Shah said: “Get Oldham Working is an essential service for our residents. It’s about so much more than just finding a job, it’s about building confidence, learning new skills and giving people the right support to move forward.
Finding a job can be a daunting task, and this service is here to help anyone who needs it take that next step.
Whether residents need help with writing CVs or cover letters, clothes for an interviews or one-to-one advice, the team is doing a brilliant job supporting residents to improve their lives.”
Since 2013, GOW works has worked with 2,000 employers across Greater Manchester to match residents with jobs, training and work placements. The team also supports people who are already in work through services like Career Advancement and Working Well Vanguard, helping them stay in work and progress in their careers.
There’s targeted help for young people, care leavers, lone parents, veterans, refugees, and people with health conditions. Sector-based programmes like Step into the NHS and Step into Care offer training and real job opportunities in areas where workers are most needed.
From a team of just six, GOW has grown to more than 50 staff. Although part of the council, the service is fully funded through outside contracts, meaning council money can be used for other vital services.
GOW will host its next Jobs Fair in September 2025, connecting residents with live vacancies, training providers and local employers.
Now in its twelfth year, Get Oldham Working remains focused on helping local people succeed and building a stronger Oldham for all. Find out more how Get Oldham Working can support you here: Get Oldham Working | Oldham Council
