Job fair to offer 1,000 roles to residents

More than 100 employers in the hospitality, healthcare and education sectors will take part in a jobs fair in Blackpool

About 1,000 job opportunities will be available at a Blackpool event this week.

More than 100 employers in the hospitality, healthcare and education sectors will take part in the jobs fair at the Winter Gardens on Thursday.

The unemployment rate in the seaside town is 7%, compared to the national rate of 4.4%.

The jobs fair has been organised by Blackpool South Labour MP Chris Webb who said: "Providing access to better-paid jobs is crucial for the future of our community."

Webb said he wanted to break the cycle of low income in the town with the average weekly wage for a full-time employee in Blackpool coming in at £591, compared to £728 nationally and £696 in north-west England.

Participants will include Pleasure Beach Resort, the Grand Theatre and hoteliers in the resort.

Employers will offer informal conversations and interviews with a view to hiring on the day or call potential recruits back for formal interviews.

Chris Webb MP has helped to organise the jobs fair

Webb said the event would provide entry-level employment and "high-quality job opportunities that offer competitive wages and long-term career prospects".

"The social value of this event will be huge too. Well-paid, stable employment is directly linked to better mental health, reduced crime rates and improved family stability."

Up to 3,000 people are expected at the morning event, which has been coordinated with local job centres for those currently claiming unemployment benefits.

The afternoon session will be open to the general public, who can sign up in advance here.