WITH unemployment a major problem in the UK, centres like The Switch in Burnley have seen a huge demand for their services.

The offices in Keirby Walk offer a wide range of help, from job seeking advice to free supported courses and WiFi access.

The Switch is part of The Big Light On, a community interest company set up in 2010 to support to people living in the borough.

Originally the services were offered by Burnley Council through its Access Point but in 2010 the council said it wasunable to continue running it and a group of volunteers took it over.

They also now have satellite centres in Accrington and Nelson which also offer a variety of courses and services including budgeting and pensions, healthy lifestyles, staying in touch with people, shopping online and public services.

Lian Pate general manager said the number of people coming to them has never been higher.

She added: “We are seeing about 60 people a day and have provided training in some form to around 600 people from across Burnley.

“The lack of jobs available is having a huge impact on the work that we are doing. People are coming to us to not only search for jobs but to carry out courses which can help them get back into work.

“We sit down with people to offer them help and guidance, which they would not get if they were just accessing the internet in a cafe or library.”

Courses include English and maths which are run through Accrington and Rossendale College.

There is also a range of IT courses, Construction Skills Certification Scheme, food safety, MiDAS minibus driving qualification as well as a range of NVQ’s.

Lian added: “We are seeing more older people come to us who need a bit of help and guidance, and those who need to get additional qualifications to be able to get back into work after having time away from employment.

“We are open to everyone, there is no need to call us you can just pop in for a chat and a brew.

“We are also always looking for more volunteer. Without our volunteers we would not be able to run and offer the services that we do.”

The centre is open from 9.30am to 3.30pm Monday to Friday.