Shoppers can now pick up more than just their weekly groceries at Sainsburys in Wandsworth.
Thanks to a new arrangement with the supermarket giant, local people will be able to benefit from free employment advice and training from the Peabody Trust's 'Digivan'. The bright yellow, self-sufficient mobile IT classroom will be parked in the Sainsburys car park on Garratt Lane every Monday from 10.00am - 1.00pm and 2.00 - 4.00pm.
The Digivan is a custom built mobile classroom that offers computer-based training and job search opportunities to the South London neighbourhoods where it is needed the most, free of charge.
The Digivan staff can help people look for work and give free advice on writing CVs and covering letters, filling in application forms and interview techniques, as well as providing free use of equipment and internet services.
The development in and around Battersea Power Station means that local residents stand to benefit from employment opportunities, both now and in the future, in areas such as retail, office support and construction.
Peabody Trust mobile IT centres have been used by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES), the Prime Minister's Cabinet office and the Mayor of London's office to publicise use of IT and the Internet.
The Digivan contains eight workstations with the latest hi-spec IT equipment, smartboards and a satellite system for internet access. The Digivans are also accessible to wheelchairs. An in-built generator ensures the Digivan III is self-sufficient and can locate anywhere in London, delivering on-line and tutor-led learning, training and job search surgeries.
The busy Sainsburys car park is ideal for the Digivan, located opposite the Wandsworth Job Centre. Store manager Kevin Jones said, "Sainsburys is delighted to be able to assist Peabody Trust in delivering local employment services and in contributing to the sustainability and future of our local community."
Each year, Peabody Trust helps 600 long-term unemployed people to obtain decent, sustainable jobs, and over 1500 people to get formal qualifications.
Peabody Trust has built a strong reputation for working with local government and communities - along with a wide range of voluntary, private and public sector partners - to tackle social exclusion, improve the quality of housing and life for our residents and to build lasting, sustainable communities.
Residents in South London can call 0800 587 8215 to find out when the Digivan will be their area.
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For further press information, please contact Peabody Trust's Communications Department on (020) 7021 4210 or email.
Notes to editor:
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Peabody Trust is one of London's largest and oldest housing associations, as well as being a general charity and community regeneration agency. Founded in 1862 by George Peabody, an American banker, entrepreneur and philanthropist, today the Peabody Trust Group owns or manages over 20,000 properties across London, providing affordable homes for over 50,000 people.
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Digivan can also be found in the following locations between 10.00am and 4.00pm:
Tuesday – Doddington Square, Battersea Park Road
Wednesday – ASDA car park, Lavender Hill
Thursday – Yvonne Carr centre, Thessaly Road
Digivan can also be found in the following locations between 10.00am and 4.00pm:
Tuesday – Doddington Square, Battersea Park Road
Wednesday – ASDA car park, Lavender Hill
Thursday – Yvonne Carr centre, Thessaly Road
Peabody Trust is one of London's largest and oldest housing associations, as well as being a general charity and community regeneration agency. Founded in 1862 by George Peabody, an American banker, entrepreneur and philanthropist, today the Peabody Trust Group owns or manages over 20,000 properties across London, providing affordable homes for over 50,000 people.
Digivan can also be found in the following locations between 10.00am and 4.00pm:
Tuesday – Doddington Square, Battersea Park Road
Wednesday – ASDA car park, Lavender Hill
Thursday – Yvonne Carr centre, Thessaly Road
Peabody Trust is one of London's largest and oldest housing associations, as well as being a general charity and community regeneration agency. Founded in 1862 by George Peabody, an American banker, entrepreneur and philanthropist, today the Peabody Trust Group owns or manages over 20,000 properties across London, providing affordable homes for over 50,000 people.
