POP-up jobs and volunteers fairs are coming to Winsford and Northwich next month.

The Cheshire West Work Zones have reported continued success matching job seekers to jobs – 45 job seekers were successful in finding new jobs in July, the largest number of people securing a new job through the Work Zone this year.

National reports have identified vacancies in retail, hospitality, and social care, which is reflected in the jobs secured by Work Zone job seekers last month.

The pandemic has had a huge effect on businesses and jobs over the past year but there are signs of rapid improvement.

The local unemployment level fell from 9,750 in June to 8,930 in July which is down 16.5 per cent overall since March.

There is usually an increased demand for staff as Christmas approaches and with that in mind Cheshire West and Chester Council has arranged pop-up jobs and volunteer fairs.

The Winsford event will be in Winsford Cross Shopping Centre on Thursday, September 30 between 10am and 2pm.

The Northwich event will take place at Apple Market Place on Friday, September 24 between 10am and 1pm.

Any businesses with vacancies can contact the Work Zone if they would like to take part on 07833 236675.

Councillor Richard Beacham, cabinet member for inclusive growth, economy and regeneration said: "The council has continued supporting businesses and residents through a very challenging and distressing period.

"We have seen a lot of job losses in our area, but equally there has been a great deal of determination from people to find work again.

"Similarly, our high streets, like others across the UK, have suffered closures, but at the same time we have seen many new independent businesses opening and an increased demand for business premises.

"Throughout the pandemic, our Work Zones have continued to offer support to local people, helping hundreds of residents back into employment.

"If you have lost your job, or are worried about losing your current job, contact your nearest Work Zone as soon as possible – they are there to help.

"You can also come along to one of the new pop-up fairs to meet local employers."

A good place to start a job search is via the Cheshire and Warrington Opportunities Portal at candwopportunities.co.uk.

If more individual employment support is required, it is available through the council’s Redundancy Support Portal on the main council website.

For more information, exhibitor enquiries or to enrol on an online job club, email: skillsandemployment@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.