Walsall jobs fair success as hundreds visit

Hundreds of jobseekers were given a helping hand on the employment ladder at a jobs fair in Walsall. Visitors, including many who have been out of work for years, flocked to the fair at Tameway Tower in the town centre yesterday.

They were able to express their interest in posts with the likes of NCP, Total Security Services or training providers such as Performance Through People, with the even declared a success by organisers.

Ex-supermarket worker Tina Swindell, 49, of Pershore Road, Bloxwich, said "It is very tough at the moment, I have been out of work for two years and I haven't had an interview.

"I have applied for lots and lots of jobs in that time and it is very frustrating."

Former foundry worker Anthony Elmore, 49, of Hall Street, Darlaston, said: "It is terrible as there is that many people unemployed. I am looking for anything reasonable but I am nearly 50 and that is going against me. These events are essential."

Gordon Evans, 51, of Hilton Close, Bloxwich, added: "It is difficult to get answers off companies. So anything like this that gives you a chance is great."

Total Security Services was among the businesses represented at the fair and praised the level of potential candidates. They offer retail security to the likes of Boots and Tesco in Walsall.

William Lutterod, regional area manager, said: "We have got our business which is expanding and we are looking for people in the area. It is pretty much on-going and we are always recruiting.

"We have had quite a few people who are interested and we are going to interview them. It looks like a lot of people have been out of employment for a while."

Training providers Performance Through People are based in Walsall. Customer advisor James Grant said: "There are a lot of people past middle age who are unemployed and it has come as a shock to the system."

"We are hoping to help get them into the workplace."

The event was organised by Inspire 2 Independence.

By Craig Hughes