Local Success Stories: Mole Valley Employment and Skills Hub

Since its launch in 2020, the Mole Valley Employment and Skills Hub (MV Hub) has played a vital role in helping residents secure employment, develop skills, and access vital support. The Hub hosts regular job fairs and drop-in advice sessions, providing tailored support on employment, cost-of-living challenges, and accessibility needs. Through partnerships with local organisations and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), these services have had a significant social impact, valued at approximately £4.6 million between 2021 and 2024.

Strong Partnerships and Ongoing Services
Located at the Swan Centre in Leatherhead with outreach services in Dorking, the MV Hub collaborates closely with Surrey Lifelong Learning Partnership (SLLP). This partnership ensures a continuous focus on skills development and employment opportunities, including hosting job fairs in Dorking and Leatherhead. Looking ahead to 2025/26, the Hub will support the second year of a youth-focused project—funded by DWP—and introduce a new initiative aimed at helping economically inactive individuals as part of Surrey’s WorkWell programme. Additionally, the SLLP will develop a new project through a bid to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to further extend employment support.

Reaching and Supporting All Residents
A key priority remains helping those who face additional barriers to employment, such as older adults and individuals living with disabilities. The MV Hub also provides targeted support to 18–24-year-olds, assisting them in accessing training and sustainable employment opportunities.

2024 Achievements in Numbers
Thanks to ongoing efforts, the Hub’s impact last year includes: 

• Referred 7 residents seeking to start their own businesses.
• Supported 314 residents in their job searches (target: 350).
• Helped 120 individuals secure employment following support (target: 130).
• Made 613 referrals to additional services (target: 500).

These impressive results demonstrate the effectiveness of the Hub in building pathways to meaningful employment and economic independence.

Looking Forward
With continued collaboration and new initiatives, the Mole Valley Employment and Skills Hub remains dedicated to supporting residents at every stage of their employment journey. Its ongoing work ensures our community remains resilient, skilled, and inclusive.

For more information about available support and upcoming events, residents are encouraged to contact the MV Hub or visit the Council’s website. 

Pictured above is Councillor Paula Keay, Cabinet member for Sustainable Economy [left] and Mandy Bosher, MV Hub Manager [right].