Among those taking part in the Reverse Jobs Fair was Alyssa Dunn from Tettenhall Wood School
The City of Wolverhampton Council teamed up with other local authorities recently for a ‘Reverse Jobs Fair’ – giving jobseekers with additional needs the chance to show off their skills to potential employers.
It took place at the Black Country Living Museum to mark National Supported Internships Day and was facilitated by the council’s specialist Supported Employment team.
Unlike a traditional jobs fair where employers host the stands, the Reverse Jobs Fair saw dozens of jobseekers showcase their skills to employers from across the West Midlands, with some being offered roles on the spot.
Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “As a council, we are determined to support people into paid employment, and events like this Reverse Jobs Fair are a fantastic way in which we can provide a platform for jobseekers with additional needs to show off their talents to potential employees.
“I am delighted that so many were able to either secure employment or get help and advice to further their work opportunities as a result of taking part in this wonderful event.”
Among those taking part was Alyssa Dunn from Tettenhall Wood School. She said: “I spoke to several people, one of whom offered me a chance to do some volunteer work. I’d just like to thank everyone for giving me the chance to go to the fair and I hope it’ll be the first of many.”
Statistics show that only 21.1% of the UK population with autism are in paid employment, as are just 5.4% of people with learning disabilities or autism who are known to social care.
The Supported Employment team can support anyone aged 16 to 67 with a learning disability or autism, providing employment opportunities and offering in work support via a Job Coach who will provide help and guidance to the jobseeker and agree reasonable adjustments with the employer.
People aged 16 to 24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan can also consider a Supported Internship provided by Adult Education Wolverhampton and the City of Wolverhampton College. Learners will spend 70% of their course on placement preparing for employment with the opportunity of paid employment following completion of the course.
To find out more about the help available from the Supported Employment team please call 01902 554411 or email supportedemployment@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
April is World Autism Acceptance Month. The Wolverhampton Autism Board website, includes information about autism, upcoming events, parent/guardian workshops, support groups for autistic individuals and professionals working with autistic people, community opportunities, information about Wolverhampton Autism Board and links to online resources and strategies.
To find out more please visit World Autism Acceptance Month.