People who are currently out of work or hoping to increase their working hours are being urged to attend a series of Belfast Employment Academies roadshows taking place across the city next week.

Delivered by Belfast City Council, the free, drop-in events will give residents the chance to meet training providers, find out about upcoming Employment Academies and explore routes into a range of growing sectors, including transport, beauty, construction, social care, working with children, technology and business services.

The council's programme of free Employment Academies is designed to help those who are unemployed or underemployed to develop new skills, build confidence and move closer to job opportunities.

Over the past year, more than 900 people were supported through the scheme, helping them prepare to apply for – and take up – new roles through skills development, training and interview practice.

Visitors to next week's roadshows can speak directly with training providers, learn more about available courses, identify potential career paths and apply for open academies on the day.

Sessions will take place on: - Tuesday 29 September, 10am–12 noon – Girdwood Community Hub

- Tuesday 29 September, 2pm–4pm – McDonald Centre, St Vincent Street (off Shore Road)

- Wednesday 30 September, 10am–1pm – 2 Royal Avenue

- Thursday 1 October, 10am–12 noon – Andersonstown Leisure Centre

- Thursday 1 October, 2pm–4pm – Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich

No registration is required – just call in.

"Our Employment Academies continue to make a real difference to people across Belfast, helping them gain the skills, confidence and experience needed to progress towards employment opportunities," said Councillor Joe Duffy, Chair of the council's City Growth and Regeneration Committee.

"Whether you're currently unemployed, looking to return to work, considering a new career direction or hoping to increase your hours, these roadshow events are a great opportunity to explore the options available to you.

"Our academies work closely with employers and training providers across a wide range of sectors to create opportunities to suit a broad range of interests and career ambitions. I would encourage anyone interested in boosting their career prospects to come along, meet our team and find out what support is available to you."