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An amazing 218 Sun readers are now back in work – thanks to the Sunemployment Roadshows.
The lucky jobseekers were among the 5,000 who flocked to the five Sun Roadshows on October 26-30.
An incredible 1,300 have also landed interviews and trials with some of the UK’s top firms – a record 57 organisations taking part this year.
On October 30, more than 1,400 people braved the rain at London’s Oval cricket ground to meet employers at the final roadshow.
Among those who managed to find work was Shareen Wilson, who was offered an administration role with hotel chain Travelodge.
Shareen, 34, said: “I use a walking stick after an operation to remove a brain tumour and it can mean employers see the disability, not the ability.
“I’ve been rejected so many times but this is just the boost I needed. Now I have a job, I can’t stop smiling.”
Sunemployment editor Jane Hamilton said: “Even with an improving jobs situation, there are still a lot of readers who need The Sun’s help to get back into work.
“From confidence building to interview techniques to being given the chance to meet employers and show the person behind the CV, the Sunemployment Roadshow is an event like no other as it has the power to change people’s lives.
“This year, with a record 57 organisations on board, we managed to find a record 218 readers jobs on the spot. And there will be many more back on the road to work as companies complete their hiring process over the next few weeks.”
Employment minister Priti Patel was at the London event along with Sun columnist Kelvin MacKenzie. The Scottish Sun Editor Gordon Smart was at the Glasgow roadshow where Charley Mcglinchey became the first person to land a job at the 2015 Sunemployment Roadshow – just 20 MINUTES after arriving on October 26.
The 18-year-old was snapped up by hotel chain Premier Inn to work in the housekeeping team.
Charley, from Castlemilk in Glasgow, had been looking for work for three months.
She said: “I’m so excited, I can’t believe I got a job. I was hoping I’d have a bit of luck today. I’m absolutely delighted.”
Matt Dodd, talent resourcing adviser for Premier Inn, said: “Charley really shone through. She’ll be a great addition to our team.”
Company bosses also heaped praise on the jobs fairs. Ed Evans, head of recruitment at restaurant chain KFC, hired 150 people over the week-long roadshows.
Also, Travelodge’s Shakila Ahmed said: “The 2015 Sunemployment Roadshow has been a great success for us. We have met some amazing people and we’ll be back next year.”
Roadshows were also held in Manchester, Birmingham and Bristol.