City and Islington College, Job Growth, Jobcentre Plus, Jobseeker's Allowance, London, older people seeking a career change, Seven Sisters Road, United Kingdom, word of mouth,
Friday, 19 August 2016
The first Jobs Fair ever to be held at the UCKG HelpCentre in Finsbury Park was a marked success, attracting around 200 jobseekers over the course of the day on 8 August. One employer who had a stand there handed out 60 application forms, and in total 76 attendees signed up with various of the employment, training and education organisations that participated.
“We didn’t know quite what to expect as we’ve not done this before, but we’re delighted with the outcome,” said Kim Powell, the UCKG HelpCentre’s Community Outreach Coordinator.
“While there’s still work to be done, analysing 145 feedback forms, the consensus among attendees and stand-holders alike is extremely positive. Most people found the event very good and helpful, we’re already being asked when our next Jobs Fair will take place.”
Kim went on to say that many of the jobseekers came from the local community, as a result of leafleting and word of mouth publicity. They were predominantly younger people who had finished college or school and were looking for part time jobs and apprenticeships. Others were after jobs in the health care sector, and there were older people seeking a career change and a new direction.
The exhibitors, who set out stands in the extensive foyer of the Rainbow Theatre on Seven Sisters Road, were:
• City and Islington College
• Islington Council
• Resources for Autism
• City Year UK
• Sevacare
• REED Employment
• University of East London
• Intech Centre
• Islington Job Centre
The fair was organised by the UCKG HelpCentre’s Community Outreach Department, in close liaison with the exhibitors. The HelpCentre also had its own stand, providing information on its full range of support services.
Sevacare supplies care workers that support some 9,600 people across England and Wales each week.
The Intech Centre teaches basic skills and IT and offers traineeships for 19-14 year olds embarking on their careers.
Resources for Autism provide practical services for children and adults on the autistic spectrum and for those who love and care for them.
City Year UK challenges young people to tackle educational inequality by giving a year of full-time voluntary service in schools. Besides having a huge impact on children’s lives, it’s a chance for volunteers to develop leadership skills.”
