Secretary of State to open Blackpool's biggest ever job fair
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden will open Blackpool’s biggest ever Jobs Fair at the Winter Gardens on February, Thursday, 26.
Blackpool is set to host its largest ever Jobs Fair on Thursday 26 February with the event returning to the Winter Gardens Conference Centre.
Pat McFadden, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, has accepted an invitation from local MP Chris Webb to officially open the fair, which will bring together local employers, training providers, and community organisations under one roof.
The Jobs Fair has a renewed focus on helping residents access quality jobs, apprenticeships, and long-term career pathways.
Over 120 employers are expected to attend, offering around 2,000 local positions in sectors ranging from health and social care, skilled trades and manufacturing to digital, financial services, and public sector roles.
Chris Webb MP said: “Blackpool has been held back for too long by low wages and seasonal work. This event is about connecting people not only with jobs but also with the skills and support needed to build a better future. Local people deserve access to secure, well-paid, future-proof jobs.”
In addition to on-the-day hiring, attendees will benefit from CV workshops, employability training, wellbeing support, and guidance on further education and apprenticeships.
The fair follows the success of 2025, which saw more than 4,000 jobseekers attend, 1,000 roles secured, and over 100 employers exhibiting.
The Jobs Fair, hosted in partnership with Jobcentre Plus and supported by Blackpool Tourism Ltd, is free to attend.
Registration is open via chriswebb.org/jobsfair with the event welcoming the public from 12pm to 3pm.
Employers confirmed for 2026 include:
- NHS
- North West Ambulance Service
- Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service
- Lancashire Police
- Blackpool Council
- Blackpool and The Fylde College
- Northern Rail
- Victrex
- Johnson & Johnson
- Fox’s Biscuits