The Ards and North Down Job Fair takes place at the Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex in Newtownards on Thursday, March 19, from 11am to 2pm.

The event connects jobseekers with employers, support agencies and skills specialists. It assists those entering the job market, returning to work or changing careers.

Organised by the Ards and North Down Labour Market Partnership with support from the Department for Communities, the fair features around 60 exhibitors from various industries.

Employers at the fair discuss current vacancies, recruitment plans and required skills. Some conduct interviews on site.

Free one-to-one services include career planning, CV advice and job search help from the Department for the Economy Careers Service, DfC Job Search Services, disability support groups and local enterprise agencies. Business start-up guidance is also provided.

BSL interpreters attend from 11am to 12.30pm. Travel cost support may be available for benefit recipients via local Jobs and Benefits offices.

Labour Market Partnerships develop employment plans for council areas with Department for Communities funding to aid local work pathways.