Hundreds of jobseekers attend council’s autumn Jobs & Opportunities Fair
ALMOST three hundred people flocked to Winchester Sport and Leisure Park for the city council’s latest district Jobs and Opportunities Fair.
The event on Thursday 23 November, organised by the Economy and Community teams from Winchester City Council in partnership with Winchester Jobcentre Plus, saw representatives from a wide range of businesses and support organisations gather in the sports hall of the centre to connect with district jobseekers and residents seeking advice and support with the cost of living.
A wide range of companies and small businesses were represented at nearly 40 stalls including Community First, Winchester Citizens Advice, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Hampshire County Council, Home Instead, Sodexo and Newbury Building Society.
Sodexo UK, which provides facilities management and food services, was represented at the event by Sarah, Rebecca and Mike. They were able to offer a number of roles to jobseekers directly on the day and said: “This was a great event with a large number of attendees with a range of skills and experience, and the size of the sports hall provided plenty of space to meet local people looking for work.”
Cllr Lucille Thompson, Cabinet Member for Business and Culture at Winchester City Council, said: “The Winchester district is full of opportunities for jobseekers, volunteers and those looking to improve their skills, and to see so many residents engaging with different organisations at our Jobs and Opportunities Fair last week was a fantastic experience.
"The connections and relationships that people build at events like this are of real value to both residents and organisations, as well as our district's vibrant economy. This year, it's also been a fantastic chance for residents to find vital cost of living support.”