Jobs Fairs introduce 1,300 residents to employers and training courses
A jobs fair programme delivered by Wirral Council has seen more than 1,300 people looking for work given the opportunity to meet with employers and training providers.
Events that have taken place include the Early Years Jobs Fair, Health and Social Care Jobs Fair and a Launchpad Jobs and Careers Fair aimed at helping young people aged 16 – 25 into employment.
Exit surveys across the events showcased how valuable facilitating face to face contact between local companies and residents looking for work is, with statistics showing that:
- 10 residents went into a new role, having met their new employer at the Early Years Jobs Fair and a further 16 started a training course they were introduced to at the event
- Almost a quarter of those at the Health and Social Care Jobs Fair had an interview during the fair, with 9% being provisionally offered a job
- 15% of attendees were provisionally offered a job interview or work placement at the Launchpad Jobs and Careers Fair, while 19% were offered enrolment on a training course
A huge range of local and regional employers have attended the jobs fairs across a broad range of industries, including: Stenaline, British Army, SticX, Wirral Met, Wirral University Hospitals Trust, HMRC, United Utilities and The University of Chester.
The jobs fair programme has been made possible thanks to funding from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, through the city region’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) allocation.
Alongside the opportunity to discuss live roles and training courses, the events have also offered residents valuable careers advice, CV tips and information on different routes into work such as apprenticeships.
Councillor Tony Jones, Chair of Wirral Council’s Economy, Regeneration & Housing Committee, said:
Having attended our jobs fairs in person and seen first-hand the valuable conversations and connections that happen at these events, it’s great to see people then going into new employment and training opportunities they’ve been introduced to at a jobs fair.
The new funding we have been able to secure through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for 2025/26 means that we’ll be able to continue this valuable programme into the next financial year, helping our residents find meaningful work and allowing our businesses to grow thanks to local talent.
Councillor Mike Wharton, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Cabinet Member for Business, Investment and Trade, said:
Creating the conditions for local residents to find fulfilling, good-quality jobs is one of the most important roles of the Combined Authority and why we’ve been so keen to support this programme of jobs fairs. It’s brilliant to see the real impact that they have already had and I’m delighted we’re able to support them for another year, helping local people access opportunities and fulfil their potential.
Employers who have attended the events have also been impressed by both the numbers of people who came along as well as the calibre of applicants. Here’s a snapshot of what they had to say:
Krol Corlett Construction: “The Launchpad Jobs Fair was a fantastic event, packed with individuals eager to explore new opportunities, upskill, and take their next steps into employment or training. It was inspiring to meet so many people with great enthusiasm and untapped potential - many with strong qualifications but limited routes into the right roles. Events like this are invaluable in bridging that gap, providing guidance, and connecting talent with local opportunities. We’re proud to have been part of such an impactful initiative, helping to support and shape the future workforce.”
HMRC: “Inspiring young people, a talented and diverse future workforce for our region.”
United Utilities: “It was truly wonderful to hear from and speak with so many enthusiastic young people about careers at United Utilities. I was genuinely impressed by their eagerness to learn more about UU and the various career paths we offer.”
Elderholme Nursing Home: “Attending the recruitment fair was a fantastic experience! We enjoyed connecting with everyone who attended and sharing our vacancies to build a brighter future together for all those who wish to excel in a career in Health and Social Care.”
If you’re an employer looking to connect with local residents and promote open vacancies and apprenticeships, please contact economicgrowthservice@wirral.gov.uk to be the first to know about future events and opportunities.
