RISHI Sunak will encourage Covid job seekers to consider career change when he opens the Crewe and Nantwich Virtual Jobs Fair.

The Chancellor has lent his support to the fair, which is being held on Wednesday, by recording a video message to open the event.

He is expected to say: "We know we have to work differently and this is just one way we can, using platforms like 'Learn Live' to bring employers and job seekers together. Thank you to all the employers and agencies taking part.

"We know there are challenges facing our economy, but events like this highlight what we also know. That in other areas we are seeing growth. In health and social care, logistics and transport, construction, online commerce there is growth

"I want to work with employers to do whatever I can to help people make the most of these growth opportunities."

And in a key message to employees the Chancellor is expected to encourage people to remain positive and not take personally a need to make a career change.

He will say: "It can be challenging, you are moving out of your comfort zone, but it doesn't mean you have gone wrong or made the wrong choice. Our economy just changes quickly and sometimes we need to change with it. So I would encourage you to keep an open mind, trust in your abilities, invest in yourself and we will do what we can as a government to support you."

MP Kieran Mullan, who has helped organise the event, said: "It is great to have recognition for the work so many great agencies are putting into this event as we all try and do what we can to support people.

"We don't have a magic wand to wave, but we are working together to help residents in Crewe and Nantwich find a way forward."

The Crewe & Nantwich Virtual Jobs Fair takes place at 10am on the Learn Live platform. You can learn more about the event and register here.

More than a dozen employers have signed up from a wide range of sectors including logistics, health and social care, public sector and utilities. Reaseheath College, Cheshire Police, United Utilities, AO, Boughey, Drivers Direct Recruitment, NH Deliveries, Belong, In Safe Hands and recruitment agencies such as RHA Recruitment and Bralin Recruitment are just some of those participating.

Managing Director for Drivers Direct Recruitment and Logistics Gethin Roberts said: "Drivers Direct are delighted to be part of the Crewe and Nantwich Jobs Fair and we find it enormously encouraging that our local MP, Kieran Mullan, along with Job Centre Plus and Cheshire East Council are being so proactive in supporting both local people and businesses.

"We find ourselves in unprecedented times where every bit of support that helps promote jobs in the local economy is welcomed by our company."

Reaseheath College Recruitment Specialist Tracey Edwards added: "As a major employer in the local area, Reaseheath College is delighted to be taking part in this virtual jobs fair. We encourage other local employers to sign up to this free event to promote vacancies and help local people find jobs."

Those unable to take part in the live event can watch it online afterwards to watch the job opportunity videos and the question and answers with employers.

For those without IT access the MP is making a printed directory of the job opportunities available from 10-4pm at his office at 249 Edleston Road, Crewe, CW2 7EA or at Regents Park Business Park (129 London Road, Nantwich, CW5 6LW).

Too see them you can book in advance by calling 01270 583432.