A NEW pilot project to help people in Burnt Oak find work has been launched.

Members of the Burnt Oak Opportunity Support Team (BOOST) celebrated getting the project off the ground at a ceremony on Saturday, July 25 at its base in Burnt Oak library.

A joint initiative between Barnet council, Barnet Homes and Jobcentre Plus, it aims to help people get in touch with employers in the nearby area.

The project is part of the West London Alliance’s ‘Working People, Working Places’ programme, with a similar pilot run on St Raphael’s estate in Brent.

Barnet deputy mayor Councillor Alison Cornelius, who marked the official opening, said: “BOOST is a great example of how we can help residents in Burnt Oak overcome any obstacles to opportunities that might stand in their way.

“I was very impressed with Barnet Homes’ staff who have already been out door knocking and speaking to residents in the area. By putting all the services together under one roof we can offer our residents the targeted support they need to help them develop new skills and overcome any obstacles that stand in their way.”

Nicky Critchfield, of the West London Alliance, said: “I am really delighted with the project and how much support we’ve had for the launch. I can’t wait to come back in a year’s time to find out about the difference that BOOST has made to people in the community.”