PEOPLE looking to start work or improve their career prospects will soon have the chance to get free expert help and advice at the Basingstoke Jobs and Careers Fair.

Aimed at people looking for work, facing redundancy or considering a career change, the drop-in event will take place at the Basingstoke Discovery Centre, in Festival Place on October 8, between 12pm and 2pm.

The free event, organised in partnership by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Basingstoke Discovery Centre, the Basingstoke Consortium, Job Centre Plus, Queen Mary’s College and Basingstoke College of Technology, has been set up to help people get the right skills to get into work or take the next step in their career path.

A variety of employers will be on hand to talk to people about their current vacancies, what they look for in applications, what training or experience they may need and how to apply.

Representatives from colleges, universities and training providers will also be available to explain how to get the training needed and will be offering one-to-one advice and guidance on careers, interviews, CVs, job searching and volunteering.

A free one-hour workshop aimed at helping people to make the right impression when first meeting potential employers will run from 1pm.

Leader of the borough council, Councillor Clive Sanders, said: “This drop-in event is another great opportunity for people to get access to the right help and advice to enable them to progress their chosen career.

“With many new employers choosing to set up in Basingstoke and more on the horizon with the regeneration of Basing View, it is important our residents have the right skills and knowledge to compete for these jobs.”

For more information, visit basingstoke.gov.uk/go/careersfair.