Skills and jobs fair matches Jobseekers' and employers' needs

27 Apr 2022

Local people and businesses attended a skills and job fair this week designed to match Newmarket Jobseekers with new employment. The event, organised by West Suffolk Council and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) at the Memorial Hall was the first of its kind in the town.

Twenty local employers attended, eager to fill positions they have on offer. Feedback from the Jobseekers who visited suggests that a large majority of those looking for a position have started the application process, and even have trial shifts arranged.

Cllr Susan Glossop, Cabinet member for Growth at West Suffolk Council said,
“Economic growth is a priority for West Suffolk Council and we support all initiatives which improve the skills of the local workforce. I was really pleased that council officers approached partners at Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about running the event after a conversation about skills at Newmarket Vision. It is easier than ever to increase your skills for free, and the local employers and training providers attending is proof of the opportunities available. I am delighted the initiative has been so well supported."

Employers, training providers and Jobseekers could also find out about the support available to them in getting into work. The Government has invited employers to help to get 500,000 Jobseekers working by the end of June 2022 through the Way to Work Campaign.

This is supported by the Plan for Jobs, a package of skills, employment and support programmes for Jobseekers at all levels, including free training places, qualifications, traineeships and apprenticeships.

You can increase your skills for free from the comfort of your own home through online learning. The Skills Toolkit at campaigns.gov.uk gives free digital courses to help you progress in work and boost your job prospect The Skills Toolkit There are more than 70 high-quality courses in digital, numeracy and employability skills, complete with support from some of the country’s leading educational experts and employers. And if you are 19 or over and don’t yet have A levels or equivalent, you can now take your first Level 3 qualification for free. Or chose from the hundreds of free courses linking to jobs in sectors such as building and construction, health and social care, accounting, engineering, environmental conservation and more.

Locally there are many opportunities for employers and Jobseekers, including part and fully-funded training, listed on the West Suffolk Council Skills webpage. 

Anyone unable to attend on the day can still find out how we can help by contacting WESTSUFFOLK.EandP@dwp.gov.uk

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