A man helped get his “dream job” working with Bolton’s biggest housing provider thanks to a new Jobcentre scheme.

The Department for Work and Pensions launched its “Mid-Life MOT” programme with the aim of getting people over the age of 50 back into work.

One of several examples of people to be helped back into work has been formerly self-employed Mark Farrington, who has been appointed to a temporary role with Bolton at Home.

Mr Farrington said: “At the beginning, things felt scary when you don’t know what you’re doing, being self-employed for 35 years meant I have never had a job interview and I have never had a CV.

“All the work coaches in the Jobcentre have been brilliant and when I was invited to the Mid-Life MOT session, I thought to myself, this type of thing isn’t for me, but I went along anyway.”

The Bolton News: Mark Farrington has secured a new role with Bolton at HomeMark Farrington has secured a new role with Bolton at Home (Image: Department for Work and Pensions)

After the Mid-Life MOT event, Mr Farrington stopped to talk to local employer adviser Jen.

He said: “I thought the session was great and I stayed behind to speak to Jen who helped me to recognise all the transferrable skills that I had and helped me realise anything was possible. 

“I had never thought about what I could do, always what I couldn’t do, and Jen helped me to see things differently.

“I have since secured a voluntary position as a technical services supervisor which then led to a temporary paid role with Bolton At Home as a planning officer.

“I have also reached interview stage for a civil service position as a jobcentre work coach too!”

The Mid-Life MOT scheme forms part of the wider 50PLUS:Choices Jobcentre programme, which aims to give people in their middle age advice about their work, finances and health.

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Staff hope that Mr Farrington’s success will inspire others to follow in his footsteps.

DWP 50PLUS champion for Greater Manchester Victoria Boylan said: “I have witnessed first-hand the positive impact Jobcentre support has on individuals and the local community.

“This programme not only empowers individuals like Mark Farrington who secured his dream job with Bolton at Home after attending, but it supports local businesses by fostering a more resilient and skilled workforce.

“By equipping individuals with the tools and confidence to navigate midlife transitions, we contribute to a stronger local community where residents thrive.”