Employability Service
Our employability service is a crucial aspect of our provision for moving clients out of poverty and into independent, self-supporting living.
We offer assistance to people who are looking to find employment or further education and training, either for the first time, or returning to the workforce after a break.
Clients are invited to book an appointment to discuss their employment situation and what assistance they need. Our employability service covers a range of subjects including:
- Creating, writing or updating a cv
- Completing application forms
- 1 to 1 coaching for interviews
- Learning where to look for jobs and how to apply for them
- Exploring career opportunities
- Sourcing training opportunities, completing further education applications and finding volunteering placements
- Confidence building and motivation support
- Signposting to relevant partner organisations
What our clients say
‘My employment worker helped me when I arrived in Edinburgh from overseas. I needed help to apply for jobs, and to improve my English. She helped me apply for a college course and to apply for jobs on line.’
Q&A
How is my appointment with the Employability Adviser carried out?
Appointments are carried out by phone. If you are claiming benefits, you can speak to your Job Centre Adviser to arrange to have the first meeting in Wester Hailes Job Centre.
I’m working at the moment, but would like to go to college. Can you help me choose a course and apply for it?
Yes. We work with people who are already in work but wanting to make a change, whether this is into a different job or training for a new career.
I don’t have a cv, can you help me write one?
Our adviser will talk you through the skills and any work experience you have to help build your cv. People are often surprised at the transferable skills they have picked up on their life journey that are highly valued in the workplace.
Can I still use the other services at COSS if I start working?
You are welcome to access any of our services if you need them. It can take time to transition to a place of financial security once you have started working and we can assist you during this period until you are back on your feet.