Bradford Central Foodbank - Empowering Communities Through Employment Jobs and Training Recruitment Fair
The event brought together local employers, training providers, and over 200 jobseekers from the surrounding community. The Foodbank’s Venue Manager, Josie Barlow, alongside her team, worked closely with SkillsHouse Business Engagement Officers and a dedicated team of volunteers to ensure the event was safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all attendees.
The fair provided a practical platform for connecting residents with employment and training opportunities, while strengthening community links and supporting local economic resilience.
A dedicated morning session focused on supported employment jobseekers, providing opportunities for individuals to showcase their skills and talents directly to employers. Recognising that neurodivergent talent is a largely untapped employment market, this approach highlighted the significant value these individuals bring to the workforce.
Supported interns hosted individual stands within an adjoining quiet room, offering a calm and structured environment. Employers met with each intern on a one-to-one basis in this setting, enabling conversations that supported wellbeing, confidence, and self-promotion in a way most conducive to each individual’s needs.
As a committed authority focused on positive employment outcomes for young people, employers were invited to sign a Supported Employment Pledge during the event. Employers committed to supporting young people through a variety of approaches, including mentoring, guest speaking, hosting group visits, offering individual work placements, job carving, and inclusive recruitment practices.
Throughout the day, a wide range of supported employment professionals were also available to provide advice, guidance, and employer support.
Designed to facilitate direct connections, promote access to training opportunities and strengthen community cohesion, the event saw 23 employers and training providers attend from sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, tourism and construction.
Positive feedback from employers, partners, and participants has created strong momentum for future activity. Plans are already underway to deliver further recruitment fairs and targeted workshops to continue supporting local residents.
Employers commented:
"Great event - very central location, nice venue, delicious food and great organisation as always! Thank you!"
"Thank you for inviting us to this event. We have already had a couple of applications as a result. We felt the reverse jobs fair was a great idea to support people who might be overwhelmed/overstimulated due to their additional needs too."