One Ilfracombe’s focus on work and skills development in the town will continue this month with a free Jobs and Careers Fair.
More than 35 employers are due to attend the free event which will be held at the North Devon Resort, Marlborough Road, in Ilfracombe, on Wednesday 25 February from 10am-2pm.
It’s being organised by One Ilfracombe as part of a programme of training and work experience opportunities to support employers and jobseekers.
The not-for-profit organisation is working closely with local businesses to bridge skills gaps in the town. It’s teamed up with Learn Devon, local schools, and North Devon College adult education outreach, to provide help.
So far, over 200 people have engaged in basic skills training, and more than 60 businesses have been supported with advice and guidance.
The Jobs and Career Fair will be a good chance for local people to meet with employers to discover job and training opportunities, and to receive career support, including advice on building their CV.
Charmain Lovett, One Ilfracombe Project Officer, said: “One Ilfracombe is working with a number of partners to deliver a range of courses and training opportunities for people in the local community. This initiative could help employers fill a gap in their team or it could help someone looking to get back into work or education. Maybe you’re a parent looking to get back into employment after having some time off, or you could have a hobby that you want to turn into a business, or maybe you’re in a job that needs a certain qualification to take you to that next level. The free Jobs and Careers Fair is a great opportunity to find out what’s available or provide you with ideas of your next steps.”
Councillor Simon Clist, Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, said:
“Ilfracombe has enormous potential, and what One Ilfracombe is doing is turning that potential into opportunity. This Jobs and Careers Fair is not just a one-day event, it’s part of a wider commitment to connect local people with real jobs, real training and real progression pathways.
“We know that coastal towns can face particular challenges around access to skills and employment. By bringing employers, training providers and support services together in one place, we are making it easier for residents to take that next step, whether that’s returning to work, gaining new qualifications or progressing in their current role.
“Through Learn Devon, and our partnership with local businesses and education providers, we are building a stronger local workforce that meets the needs of employers while opening up brighter futures for individuals and families in Ilfracombe.”
Councillor Malcolm Prowse, Lead Member for Economic Development and Regeneration at North Devon Council, said: “Ilfracombe is full of talented, hardworking people, and events like this Jobs and Careers Fair really help bring that potential to life, giving people the confidence, support and encouragement to take that next step, whatever stage they’re at. The fair will provide direct access to employers looking to recruit now but also give advice on volunteering options and life-skills to help those moving back to employment.
“Our local employers want to see their communities thrive, and One Ilfracombe is helping make those connections that can genuinely change someone’s direction. Whether you’re returning to work, switching careers or just exploring what’s out there, this is a friendly and welcoming place to start.”
In response to feedback from employers, a range of training courses and workshops are being offered in Ilfracombe, many of which are free. Courses are available in a variety of subjects, including digital business skills, customer care, food safety and hygiene, as well as Maths and English.
The National Trust recently helped with a hands-on Countryside Skills workshop, building bird boxes. Around 15 people took part, learning to work with tools to discover new skills and confidence and inspire their creativity.
Fraser Goodfellow, North Devon National Trust Ranger, said: “We’re incredibly proud to play a part in opening doors for young people at the National Trust. Seeing their enthusiasm and talent shine through reminds us why these partnerships matter. We look forward to welcoming them for work experience and hopefully, nurturing future National Trust Rangers.”
For more details contact Ilfracombe Employment Hub, at 11 Belgrave Promenade, which is open 9:30am – 4:30pm on Mondays and Tuesdays. To make an appointment at any of Devon’s employment hubs, visit our website where you can fill out the form or email employmenthub@devon.gov.uk
For more information visit the One Ilfracombe website.