A NEW website has been set up to help parents eager to return to work or learn new skills.

Developed by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, the One Stop Shop site provides information including job vacancies both locally and nationally, tips for writing CVs, careers information and childcare options in the town.

The site was launched at Testbourne Teapot - a Whitchurch-based group which offers learning opportunities for parents while encouraging them to join in educational activities with their children.

Jo George, from Whitchurch, said she was thinking of training as a primary school teacher after the birth of her second child.

She said: "The website is great for finding out information about what training I would need and what courses are running locally, as well as details on the childcare options that are available."

Adult Learner Awards winner Barbara Maxwell told parents they should never be afraid of returning to learning.

The student of forensic science at Basingstoke College of Technology said: "I would recommend going back to learning to anyone. The tutors now want me to train to teach the subject myself."

Councillor Paul Harvey, who is responsible for employment, skills and learning, said the website was part of the council's partnership for success initiative.

The initiative brings together education providers and the business and wider community, he said, to create opportunities for constant self development for all, and break down barriers to continuing learning and training.

Residents will be able to get hands-on experience of the website - www.oneshop.org.uk - at three special roadshows to be held tomorrow, at Sainsbury's in Hatch Warren, between 9.30am and 11.30am, and Bishops Green Village Hall, between 12.45pm and 3pm, and the following day at Festival Place, Basingstoke, between 9am and 3pm.

A One Stop Shop confidential hotline is available during office hours on 0800 136670 to offer advice for those without internet access.

First published: Monday, March 7