Jobcentres are setting out plans to boost support for jobseekers and businesses.
Barrhead and Newlands jobcentres are preparing for a busy year ahead, with a renewed focus on expanding opportunities and employer partnerships, delivering a programme of jobs fairs and targeted assistance for residents of all ages.
Karen Tonks, external relationship leader for the Department for Work and Pensions, said: “2026 is set to be a big year for us.
“Our teams are focused on building even stronger connections with businesses and helping even more jobseekers find the right roles.
“We’re planning a full programme of in-person jobs fairs.”
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A flagship event for jobseekers in 2026 will be the Glasgow Airport Jobs Fair, taking place on Wednesday, January 28, from 9.30am to 4.30pm, offering up to 1000 employment opportunities.
Karen said: “We’ll also be expanding our specialist support, including tailored events for young people and the over-50s, while growing our links with local employers.
“These partnerships will help us move people into jobs faster, with better matches and more opportunities across a wide range of sectors.
“With hundreds of vacancies available on the Find a Job – GOV.UK website at any time – from hospitality to healthcare – we’re committed to helping people take their next step into fulfilling work throughout 2026.”
Karen also explained the hands-on support on offer at local jobcentres.
She said: “Whether it’s CV guidance, interview coaching or introductions to local employers, we’ll be offering hands-on support to help people build confidence and seize new opportunities.
“Our message to jobseekers is simple: if you’re ready to start your journey, 2026 could be the year your next opportunity begins.”
National figures reflect the changing jobs landscape, with 513,000 more people in work than this time last year.
East Renfrewshire has seen local progress, with a 2% increase in employment in the past 12 months.
Jobcentre staff said the focus on supporting older jobseekers is also showing results, with a year-on-year increase in employment among those aged 50 and over.
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Pat McFadden, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: “Today’s figures show there are 513,000 more people in work compared to this time last year, but also highlight why we must go further, especially for our young people.
“That’s why we are investing £1.5 billion to get hundreds of thousands of young people earning or learning, while former health secretary Alan Milburn is leading a review to help us get to the root of what is holding the younger generation back.
“Through our Jobs Guarantee launching this month, we are helping young people find paid work placements, and we urge employers to come forward and join the likes of EON, JD Sports, Tesco and TUI who are already pledging their support.”
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