The West Midlands has a population of over 5.9 million people. Located at the heart of major road and rail networks, it is the fifth largest region in England. As well as the urban areas of Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall, The West Midlands includes the more rural counties of Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire.
The West Midlands played a key part of the industrial revolution and has a long history of manufacturing. Services also play a large role in the regional economy, employing almost half the working population and producing over half the region’s goods and services. Other key sectors in the region are engineering, transportation and storage, construction and energy.
With one of the UK’s youngest and most diverse labour forces, the region is recognised for world-leading automotive innovation, green technology and health & life sciences. The proposed HS2, Coventry City of Culture 2021 and the Commonwealth Games in 2022 is likely to drive growth further.
Local organisations supporting people to find a job
In the West Midlands there are many organisations offering online support to help if you are new to the job market, considering a change of career, need help with writing a CV or with interview preparation. If you are out of work and claiming benefits, you can also contact your local Jobcentre work coach for help and advice.
Black Country
Jobchange website: Provides guidance, advice and training across the West Midlands. Check out the website to find out about free training opportunities for skills and personal development. You can also book an appointment to talk with qualified Careers Advisers who will be happy to help.
Worcestershire
Skills 4 Worcestershire Careers Advice Portal website This is a careers website designed to provide young people, parents and schools with all the information required to understand the career opportunities available in Worcestershire. This website signposts to useful resources, careers and employability advice as well as important information about Worcestershire’s economy.
If you are over 18, the National Careers Service website provides information, advice and guidance on learning, training and work. Support includes finding jobs to suit your skills, writing a CV and interview techniques. Talk to your Work Coach or visit the National Careers website alternatively contact them direct on 0800 100 900.
Several libraries across Worcestershire also run weekly Job Clubs to help unemployed people back into work or those wishing to change jobs. Check out the Worcestershire County Council’s Job Clubs website for online help and advice and Job Club dates, times and locations.
Birmingham and Solihull
If you are over 18, the National Careers Service website provides information, advice and guidance on learning, training and work. Support includes finding jobs to suit your skills, writing a CV and interview techniques.
Training and Events
Brum Jobs Hour (Twitter)
Every Friday 2pm – 3pm
If you are searching for a new job #BrumJobsHour may have just what you are looking for! For the latest vacancies in the Birmingham area join us on Twitter at @JCPinBirmingham (external link) at 2pm every Friday for #BrumJobsHour
The Black Country
Black Country Jobs Hour (Twitter)
Every Wednesday 11am – 12pm
Find out about more jobs and opportunities in the area by following @JCPInTheBC (external link) on Twitter and searching #BlkCountryHour
Follow your local Jobcentre on Twitter
Keep up to date with jobs, events, career advice and opportunities in your local area. ‘Job hours’ run regularly and are a great place to hear from employers recruiting in your area.
