A SPECIAL open day for people wishing to learn more about the Employment Service's New Deal for Lone Parents will take place at Newton Community Centre on Monday, September 27.

Lone Parent Advisor, Richard Masters will be on hand to provide information about how local lone parents can find out what help is available to them from the New Deal.

Richard says: "If you are a lone parent on Income Support, getting a job can help in many ways, not just with more money in your pocket. It offers a chance to learn new skills, develop your confidence, meet new people and do something different while getting a break from home and children.

"The New Deal for Lone Parents is about taking that important step towards a better future for you and your children.

"The thought of getting a new job can be daunting, but the Open Day will help to provide some more information and will help those making decisions about getting back to work. It will operate on an informal basis and no appointment is necessary.

"We will be able to discuss topics such as in-work benefit calculations to assess whether you will be better off in work, and eligibility for a Jobfinders grant. Eligibility for a Back to Work Bonus and the possibility of two weeks free Income Support while you settle into a new job are other areas which can be discussed."

Anyone is welcome to pop in between 10am and 3pm on Monday, September 27 at Newton Family and Community Centre, Park Road South, Newton-le-Willows.

Anyone unable to attend the event can make an appointment to see a Lone Parent Adviser by ringing the freephone number 0800 783579.

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