SKILLS 4 You, a group that supports unemployed people getting back into work have started a musical band. 

The band is made up of staff and members of the group and they have recently recorded their first album. 

Skills 4 You is based in Cleator Moor and offers a range of courses, including art and cookery, to help its members gain essential life skills. 

The band has been facilitated with the help of Gosforth-based musician James Cooper Cowan. 

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A Skills 4 You spokesperson said: "The band was formed in 2023 after a learner accessing the therapeutic life coach support at Skills 4 You, expressed an interest in learning the guitar to improve their confidence and mental wellbeing.

"This idea was presented to other learners who also expressed an interest, and a week later Kay set up the group.

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"The music group aims to have fun, learn new skills, and play music together. Skills 4 You strives to improve the confidence and self-esteem of their learners, whilst combating rural isolation and loneliness for unemployed adults living in Copeland.

"The band welcomes a wide range of abilities from beginner to advanced. Recently, they recorded their first album at The Music Farm recording studios in Haile.

"The album ‘Little Green Shoots’ features well-known songs with the band’s lyrics added. The songs playfully describe some of the exciting projects currently happening at Skills 4 You."