Resource, the North London-based charitable organisation that helps unemployed members of the Jewish community find employment, has received a £9,300 award from the National Lottery in recognition of the help it provides to members of the community to find and secure employment.

Resource CEO Victoria Sterman said the award has come at just the right time as demand has continued to increase markedly over the pandemic period. “We’ve experienced a 300 per cent increase in the number of people approaching us for help since the beginning of the pandemic. And as government support to firms reduces, we expect to see this continuing to rise for some time.

“The priority has been to recruit and provide training for four new advisors. They have joined a highly skilled and professional volunteer team providing one-to-one advice and support. A programme of tailored workshops and seminars also encompasses every aspect of finding and securing the right job, including preparing effective CVs and job applications, using networking to full advantage, psychometric testing, improving IT skills and mock interviews.

“We have also initiated a new scheme for those who may simply want to talk through their employment situation without necessarily becoming a client. They can book to have a telephone discussion with an advisor.

“We now provide all of our services online. They are available for clients anywhere in the country, from all walks of life, any occupation or profession and regardless of religious observance. And thanks to our financial supporters, all our services are free.” Further information is available at www.resource-centre.org or telephone 020 8346 4000.