Hundreds head to Whitechapel in search of a new career

Jobseekers and residents looking for a change of career turned out in their hundreds last week to meet employers and take the next step on the employment ladder.

The 2019 Tower Hamlets Jobs Fair took place at Idea Store Whitechapel on Thursday, attracting more than 400 attendees.

Organised by Tower Hamlets Council in partnership with Tower Hamlets Homes, the event was aimed at residents of the borough who are leaving education and looking to start working, hoping to return to employment after a period not working or people interested in a change of career and a new direction.

John Biggs, Mayor of Tower Hamlets said: “Some of the biggest employers in the country are based right here in our borough but we know our residents don’t always feel able to take advantage of the job opportunities that are available.

“Events like the Tower Hamlets Jobs Fair bridge that gap and bring organisations of all sizes together with local people. It was great to see so many people at the Idea Store, finding out about the opportunities available and possibly taking a key step in discovering a new career.”

Those attending had the opportunity to meet with the recruitment teams from organisations including Transport for London, the London Fire Brigade, the NHS and the National Audit Office.

The council’s WorkPath team as also on hand to offer advice on applying for jobs, acquiring new skills and preparing for interviews. They were providing interested residents with all the latest information on training courses and apprenticeship opportunities.

Councillor Motin Uz-Zaman, Cabinet Member for Work and Economic Growth said: “WorkPath does a terrific job in preparing our residents for the world of work and supporting them to overcome challenges they might face in successfully gaining employment.

“The team has developed great relationships with a number of high profile employers which was reflected in the range of organisations taking part in our recent jobs fair. I spoke to a number of the recruitment teams and they were really impressed with the quality of the potential new recruits they were meeting.”