A NEW careers guidance service, Finding Futures, has launched in the Hexham and Corbridge area.

Founder Lesley Robson is from Hexham and attended what is now the middle school in Corbridge.

The Finding Futures service offers students and new graduates an opportunity to talk over their plans and ideas, to explore thoroughly all routes and approaches they could consider to develop their interests and employability.

“For the student or parent who wants to discuss options or gain understanding of career areas and emerging roles, there is no substitute for informed conversation,” said Lesley.

“This allows for detailed exploration and solid understanding of the next steps and opportunities, getting under the skin of ideas such as travel, university course choice, competing for an apprenticeship or taking productive time out.”

Lesley is a member of the Careers Development Institute and features on its professional register.

“I was brought up in Hexham and trained in Newcastle and now I am self employed as a careers guidance adviser,” added Lesley.

“With the demise of the careers service and then Connexions, not a lot remains of an impartial careers service for young people and certainly little that offers individuals one-to-one access with a fully trained adviser.

“Planning a future should be fun, exhilarating and exciting; too often students confess they rushed or lacked research when making decisions and wish they had paused to creatively consider their options.”