Residents across Halesowen and Brierley Hill are being invited to take advantage of two new weekly Job Skills Clubs, launching on Tuesday 16 June 2026, designed to help people build confidence, develop essential employability skills and access tailored support to move closer to work.

Delivered through the WorkWell programme, the clubs are a partnership between Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (BCHFT) and Just Straight Talk (JST), providing free support, advice and guidance for people seeking employment, training or education opportunities.

The sessions will take place weekly on Tuesdays at:

• Brierley Hill Library – 10:00am to 12:00pm
• Halesowen Library – 1:30pm to 3:30pm

Attendees will have access to practical, hands-on support to help them take positive steps towards employment. The sessions will offer guidance on creating effective CVs, searching and applying for jobs, setting up and using email accounts, and completing application forms. Participants will also be supported to explore training and education opportunities, develop their interview techniques and confidence, and improve their digital skills. Where additional support is needed, individuals will be connected with relevant local services and organisations to help them overcome barriers and progress towards their employment goals.

The new clubs form part of the expanding WorkWell offer across the Black Country, helping people overcome barriers to employment and improve their health, wellbeing and financial resilience through meaningful work.

WorkWell is a government-funded programme delivered across the Black Country by Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and local partners. The service supports people whose health or wellbeing may be affecting their ability to find work, remain in employment or return to work after a period of absence.

Since its launch in October 2024, WorkWell has supported more than 2,900 people across the Black Country, providing personalised support that helps individuals identify and overcome barriers to employment, improve their wellbeing and connect with local opportunities.

Stacey Rollinson Delivery Leader at Just Straight Talk, said:

"We are delighted to be working alongside Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust through the WorkWell programme to launch these new Job Skills Clubs. We know that finding work or taking the next step in a career can feel overwhelming, particularly for people who may lack confidence, digital skills or access to the right support. These sessions will provide a welcoming and supportive environment where people can gain practical skills, receive one-to-one guidance and build their confidence to pursue employment, training and education opportunities."

Michelle Bennet, Senior Work and Health Coach (Dudley) at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said:

"Good work can have a significant positive impact on both physical and mental wellbeing. Through WorkWell, we are committed to helping people across the Black Country overcome barriers that may be preventing them from accessing or remaining in employment. Partnering with Just Straight Talk to deliver these job skills clubs strengthens the support available within local communities and ensures more residents can access the advice, skills and opportunities they need to thrive."

People interested in attending can simply come along to one of the weekly sessions or contact Just Straight Talk via www.juststraighttalk.org for further information.