The ‘Grey Panther’ project is aimed at men aged between 45 and 65 who have been jobless for more than six months and offers the opportunity to study a vocationally relevant course in order to improve employment prospects.

The project, which is fully supported by ‘Jobcentreplus’, will help overcome barriers to work by developing a tailor made programme to support each individual’s needs. Some may choose to continue with their studies after the initial course, others may go directly into employment as a result of an optional work placement.

The jobless students will be helped with travel costs, course books and materials thanks to support from the European Social Fund.

Grey Panther initially started around six months ago at the University of Leeds. The scheme has now been extended to centres in Bradford and the University is collaborating with Leeds to help make it a success in both cities.

Anne Weston, from the University of Bradford, is project manager for Grey Panther in Bradford. She said: “Men in this age bracket are sometimes regarded as too old by some employers, but it has been recognised by the University that they may have a lot to offer in terms of life experience and a diversity of skills.

“The Grey Panther project aims to get these men back on their feet by matching their skills to vacancies with local employers.”

Students will attend the project for approximately four hours a week for 12 weeks in the first instance before being guided onto the next step.

There will be a variety of starting dates between now and the end of 2006, and chance to study at a variety of venues, including the main campus of the University of Bradford and the following community-based venues:

• Benton Park School, Rawdon, Leeds
• Hanson School, Bradford
• Morley High School, Leeds
• Wyke Manor Community Centre, Bradford

Anyone interested in this scheme should contact Anne Weston at the School of Lifelong Education and Development , University of Bradford, on 01274 233211 or email a.c.weston@bradford.ac.uk