Bloomfield Road a hit for jobs and skills

There they had the chance of meeting almost 50 exhibitors from local companies, training organisations, the forces and voluntary organisations.

They were there for the second Blackpool Works Jobs and Skills fair, organised by Blackpool South MP Gordon Marsden.

Officially opened by Blackpool’s Mayor Coun Val Haynes and chief executive of Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre CVS, Richard Emmess, it allowed unemployed people of all ages to talk to prospective employers and others who could help them improve their skills, write effective CVs or even start their own business.

Gordon Marsden said: “I would like to thank all the exhibitors and the people who have come and to my staff who organised this event.

“The jobs scene in Blackpool is complex and challenging. The aim of this event is to help people get the skills they need and see the range of opportunities for them from a wide range of organisations.

There are thing for young people coming out of school and college, the 19 to 24 age range and also for older 
people.”

Richard Emmess, from the CVS, said: “The size and scope of what is called the ‘third sector’ in Blackpool is not well understood by many but the sector is a major employer in the town and a considerable number of well paid jobs are advertised each year.

“Nearly £60m has been invested in Blackpool over 10 years and that would not have happened without this vibrant voluntary sector.”

Among the young people attending were Simon Sullivan and his brother Will from South Shore with their friend James Radley-Williams.

Simon said: “I have been to a few of these and this is brilliant with a wide range of exhibitors.

“I am looking at all the different options.”

Will said: “I am looking for youth work, volunteering and how to get up the education ladder to achieve that.”

James said: “I was surprised how many exhibitors there were, it was quite crowded actually.

“I am here to find out about the volunteer sector and about how to set up my own business.”