DRESSING to impress for interviews is just one way a grant will help Worcester people back into work.

A new course, entitled You Can Do It, has recently been launched to help people into employment.

The course, which targets the disadvantaged long-term unemployed, also helps out-of-work people with presentation skills, voice workshops and mock interviews.

You Can Do It is being run at the YMCA in St John's and is working with a groups of eight people.

The 10-week project has been funded by a Community First Action for Learning grant.

A month after the course ends, tutors will review students' progress in their job searches and offer extra support if needed.

The course, which has two tutors, shows people how to dress for an interview on a low budget by providing supervised spending of a £50 clothing grant.

People on the course will also learn, among other skills, how to write a CV and practice completing application forms.

"They will have voice workshops and we are hoping to introduce businesses to set up mock interviews," said Mel Smith, IT and community programme co-ordinator at the YMCA.

"We will coach them in their skills and help them with interview techniques, and we are also going to identify any areas that people need to brush up on."

Mrs Smith said the £4,674 grant would pay for two intensive You Can Do It programmes, the second of which is due to start in January.

"We are working with the JobCentre and New Deal voluntary sector, which put clients in touch with our course," said Mrs Smith.

"People of any age can enrol. The course offers a greater level of support for people who need it.''

The next course runs from Tuesday, January 14, to Tuesday, March 18.

For further details, contact Mrs Smith on 01905 423197.