The event provided the perfect platform for attendees to find out about the wealth of opportunities available on civvy street, with many of the employers in the room actively recruiting.
The fair was organised by RRC’s Plymouth and Tidworth, and was officially opened by The Right Honourable Lord Mayor of Bristol, Councillor Peter Main. The Lord Mayor was on hand to greet the Service leavers as they entered the event, and says, “I support those residents in the city who have served or currently serve in the Regular and Reserve Forces using the skills that they have developed whilst serving to the benefit of the employer and in their endeavours to secure employment within the city.”
Exhibitors at the event represented a wide range of industry sectors and vocations, and companies in attendance included Amazon, with opportunities in areas such as supply chain, logistics, health & safety and customer service; Argos, BAE Systems, Nationwide Building Society, Nuffield Health, who were advertising for Personal Trainers and Ward Nurses, plus non-clinical roles; and Co-operative Food, with opportunities ranging from Warehouse Operatives and Drivers to Management roles.
The event was attended by Service leavers at all stages in their resettlement, with some using the fair as an opportunity to gain a general insight into the local job market, and to explore the different career options available to them, whilst others brought along CVs and used the fair to network with employers and find out about specific job vacancies.
Throughout the course of the day, over 650 Service leavers walked through the doors, which was especially impressive considering the event took place on a rare hot and sunny day in July! As well as speaking with employers, attendees were also able to receive advice on all aspects of their resettlement at the CTP stand, with Career Consultants on hand to provide CV advice. The event was also attended by a number of Service support agencies and charities, including The Poppy Factory and The Forces Pension Society.
Feedback from the event suggested that many attendees were surprised to learn about the range of different opportunities available, with one Service leaver saying, “It is as useful to learn what opportunities exist as it is to learn what offers and matches my experience and qualifications”. Another commented, “Very good event which was eye-opening in terms of the scope of employment opportunities available to Service leavers. Thank you!”
Check the CTP events calendar for details of forthcoming employment fairs!