Over 500 people attended a free event for unemployed and those facing the prospect of redundancy that was held at Fosse Shopping Park on Wednesday 10 September.

Blaby District Council, working in partnership with Leicestershire County Council and Job Centre Plus, organised the jobs and skills event that was hosted by Fosse Park. It attracted over 30 local employers including Santander, Mattioli Woods, BT, Gap, New Look, BHS, Samworths, HM Prisons, Caterpillar and Sytner.

Visitors also had the chance to get advice on training and adult education courses, starting a business, apprenticeships, interview and job application skills as well as volunteering and work experience.

Councillor Tony Greenwood, portfolio holder for Planning, Economic Development and Housing Strategy at Blaby District Council, said:

“Although we know that unemployment numbers are falling across the country, as the economy grows more vacancies are becoming available and we are keen to help employers to fill those. The aim of this event was to bring together recruiters and job seekers, support and training all under one roof to help people get into work”.

Riaz Aslam, aged 19 from Narborough who has been looking for work came to the event said

“I’ve been talking to people about apprenticeships and they have been sharing information about IT courses. I’ve got an application form to fill in for a job at Fosse Park. Today’s event has been useful and people have helped me by showing me useful websites”

Find more information about local support sessions for unemployed people visit the Council’s website www.blaby.gov.uk/resident/jobs/help-finding-work