Employment support that works for rural communities
The Rural Jobs Platform is transforming how rural Northumberland approaches employment. We're building an interconnected ecosystem of digital tools that make it easier to find the right job, access the right support, and build the skills needed for sustainable employment.
Developed in partnership with employers, support organisations, and job seekers across the region, this platform addresses the unique challenges of rural employment—from transport accessibility to coordinating training across dispersed populations.
Built for the reality of rural employment
Every feature addresses a real challenge faced by people working in and seeking employment across rural Northumberland.
Smarter matching
Connect job seekers with opportunities based on skills and experience—not just job titles. Help employers find qualified candidates who might have been overlooked.
Coordinated support
Assessment tools that identify exactly what support someone needs right now, connected directly to our comprehensive directory of local services.
Rural-aware
Built-in guidance for addressing transport challenges, reaching dispersed populations, and creating inclusive opportunities in rural settings.
Training coordination
Track who needs which training and where they're located, so courses can run when minimum numbers are reached across rural areas.
Inclusive job adverts
Step-by-step guidance helps employers create accessible, compliant job listings that reach diverse candidates effectively.
Connected ecosystem
Five tools working together as a single platform—data flows between them to reduce duplication and improve outcomes.
Tools for every part of the employment journey
Whether you're supporting people into work, hiring for your business, or shaping economic strategy, this platform has tools for you.
Employment Support Workers
DWP, Housing Associations, VCSE Organisations
- Assess client needs and get tailored service recommendations
- Search a comprehensive directory of 54+ employment support services
- Track and coordinate training across rural areas
- Reduce assessment time and improve outcomes
Employers & SMEs
Business Owners, Hiring Managers, HR Teams
- Create inclusive, compliant job adverts with guided support
- Reach qualified candidates through skills-based matching
- Get practical advice for rural recruitment challenges
- Listings appear on Northumberland jobs board
Economic Development Leaders
Strategy, Policy, Regional Development
- Evidence-based approach to rural employment support
- Platform generates insights on skills gaps and training needs
- Demonstrates coordinated service delivery
- Scalable model for other rural areas
Five tools, one integrated system
Each tool solves a specific challenge, but they work together to create a complete employment support ecosystem.
Support Planner
Assessment tool that identifies employment readiness stage and recommends tailored support services from our directory.
Employment Service Directory
Searchable database of 54+ services with detailed filtering by location, type, pace, referral process, and accessibility features.
Training Matcher
Coordinate training needs across dispersed rural populations to ensure courses can run with minimum viable numbers.
Job Advert Assistant
Guided creation of inclusive, accessible job listings with compliance checks and rural recruitment best practices.
Job Matcher
Skills-based matching helps job seekers find opportunities they're qualified for, even when job titles are unclear.
Ready to explore the platform?
We're launching in phases and working with organisations across Northumberland to ensure these tools meet real needs. Get in touch to learn more, request access, or discuss how this could support your work.