OXFORDSHIRE MPs have backed our campaign to get 12 jobseekers back into work.

Oxford East MP Andrew Smith said: “I read the items in the Oxford Mail and I fully support the efforts of all of the people who are trying to get into work and it is great that they have got the backing of their local newspaper.

“By bringing their skills and experience to the attention of the employer through the Mail, I am sure it is going to help them on their way.”

Wantage MP Ed Vaizey is also giving his support to We Want to Work. He said: “In the past two years, the Government has helped created hundreds of thousands of private sector jobs. “I’m delighted the Oxford Mail is working with jobseekers and recruiters to secure more jobs. With our focus on freeing up business and investing in skills, I am sure we will continue to grow employment over the next few months.”

Banbury MP Sir Tony Baldry said there were a number of schemes in his constituency that were also aimed at getting people back into work. He said: “I firmly believe we should all do whatever possible to help people if they are out of work and help them get back into the world of work as quickly as possible.

“That is why in North Oxfordshire we have set up job clubs in Banbury and Bicester which are held regularly to give support to local people who are wanting to get back into the world of work.

“It is often important to find ways in which people can enhance their skills to access the jobs that are available.”

And Oxford West and Abingdon MP Nicola Blackwood said: “I am very pleased to hear of the campaign organised by the Oxford Mail in conjunction with A4e.

“This is an excellent initiative which will seek to meaningfully link employers with prospective employees.

“As we weather some really tough economic times, it is more important than ever that we work together to provide opportunities.

“The number of jobseeker’s allowance claimants is falling – it is 269 lower than in August 2011 and 31 lower than in July 2012.

“We have some of the lowest unemployment in the country in Oxford West and Abingdon. I welcome campaigns, such as We Want To Work.”

Dawn Bartlett, 37, from Alvescot

  • Looking for work in: The care sector, but would also consider roles cleaning, waitressing, barwork or warehouse work.
  • Skills and experience: Cleaning experience and knowledge of the hair and beauty industry.
  • Qualifications: Nine GCSEs.

SINGLE-parent Dawn Bartlett is keen to return to the world of work after dedicating her time to bringing up her son.
The 37-year-old from Alvescot is looking for work in Carterton, Witney or Oxford.
She is keen to get a job in the care sector having been through the A4e ‘All About Care’ course.

Bishnu Rai, 44, from Barton

  •  Looking for work in: Professional cleaning (industrial and domestic), security or warehouse work.
  •  Skills and experience: Cleaner for domestic and industrial establishments. Also worked as a security guard.
  •  Qualifications: SIA full licence, first aid, full UK driving licence. Speaks fluent Nepali, Hindi and Chinese.

DAD-of-two Bishnu Rai has been looking for a full-time job for more than a year.
The 44-year-old is keen to bag a job as a cleaner or as a security guard or warehouse worker.
Lorraine Ousley, employment adviser and trainer for A4e, said: “Bishnu is a competent cleaner with impeccable customer service skills and great attention to detail.
“He has worked in many domestic and industrial establishments.”