A pioneering project to help people over 40 find work in Bradford has attracted European attention.

The People Of Previous Experience scheme, set up by Bradford & District Training and Enterprise Council, runs a recruitment service and courses for people who have been made redundant.

It also encourages employers to take on people with experience of life and work.

Its impressive track record of success resulted in a visit by Italian journalist Silvia Guzzetti and a photographer to gather material for a story in Milan's leading magazine, Club 3.

POPE's recruitment and development consultant, Maureen Bean, said the project had so far helped 700 individuals back to work and had run courses giving advice on job applications and interview techniques for more than 2,000.

"We were delighted to welcome our visitors from Italy," she said.

"Ageism is a problem at work in every country - not just here in Britain.

"Silvia says interest in projects like POPE is enormous in Italy, and we are only too pleased to pass on our experience and expertise.

"We work hard to break down barriers to enable men and women over 40 to find their way back into employment.

"More and more companies are beginning to recognise the value of employing mature workers and the whole subject is gaining more prominence."

For details about the scheme phone Maureen on Bradford 751307.

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