The university will use a VAT windfall from last November to set up its Working Futures Fund. It has earmarked £3,000 for each out-of-work individual to gain new qualifications and skills.
Cathy Gilbert, director of sales and recruitment at Staffordshire University, said: "The recession is indiscriminate - it can hit people who have been in the same job for decades, or people in the early years of their careers. Often people see the university just as a place where you get a degree, but we have hundreds of courses and qualifications that will put people at the front of the queue in the quest for new jobs."
Commenting on the new fund, Ken Stepney, learning and development manager at JCB, said: "We have an excellent working relationship with Staffordshire University and are delighted to hear the university is working hand in hand with employers and individuals alike to lessen the impact of the economic downturn.
"Training is a vital part of any company's continuing development and we will be exploring opportunities to help our staff take advantage."
Staffordshire University to provide financial help for local jobless to gain new skills
Staffordshire University has invested 500,000 to provide training and practical assistance to help the jobless and local businesses through the recession.
