Unemployed professionals seminar proves big success

A seminar tackling the problems of unemployed construction professionals last week attracted so much interest that another is to be held this year.

Held by the CIoB, the Construction in Crisis seminar drew a packed audience of unemployed professionals for a day-long programme of advice on job-hunting, interview techniques, retraining and European opportunities.

The seminar was provided free and was organised by the CIoB's Benevolent Fund in response to requests from members unable to find jobs.

Sandra Raine, CIoB Benevolent Fund Secretary, said: 'Feedback from delegates was extremely positive. Many commented they had drawn great comfort from knowing there were other qualified professionals in the same position, and this helped relieve some of the feelings of guilt and self blame.'

Some who attended have agreed to form a support group with a view to networking or even setting up a multi-discipline consultancy business.