Residents in and around Bicester will be able to sign-on for Jobseeker’s Allowance at Cherwell District Council’s Linkpoint office in Bicester from Monday 5 July.

Jobcentre Plus has taken up Cherwell District Council’s offer to use its Market Square office on a temporary basis in response to the economic downturn. Cllr Barry Wood, Cherwell District Council’s Leader, said: “This is in response to feedback from residents who’ve lost their job and who’ve had to travel to Banbury or Oxford fortnightly to sign-on. We offered Jobcentre Plus the use of our Linkpoint office for a new service that will be a boon for residents.”

Helen Samuel, senior operations manager for Thames Valley Jobcentre Plus, added: “This is the first service of its kind in the region and we’re delighted to be working with Cherwell District Council to help residents. It’s an appointment-based service for those already registered to receive Jobseeker’s Allowance.”

Tony Baldry MP announced the new service on 2 July at 12 noon at the Bicester Job Club, which is also marking its first year of service to job seekers. Mr Baldry commented: “I’ve been campaigning for Bicester to be better supported by Jobcentre Plus and I’m truly grateful that they recognised the need and supported a Job Club in Bicester. This support has now taken a huge leap forward with the new sign-on service from 5 July.”

Cllr Norman Bolster, Cherwell District Council’s portfolio holder for economic development and estates, said “It’s right that the district council uses its resources to support residents affected by this economic downturn. We’ve made our office available to Jobcentre Plus and we’re pleased to add to the support we’re already offering through the fortnightly Bicester Job Club.”