Thurrock residents looking for work or considering a career change are being encouraged to attend a free skills event.

The South Essex Skills Roadshow event, organised by Thurrock Council, is taking place at South Essex College in High Street, Grays, from 3pm until 7pm on Thursday March 7.

There will be more than 20 stalls, with Essex and national businesses across sectors including leisure, construction, logistics, care and ICT, as well as training providers and other organisations offering help and advice.

Whether people are looking to retrain, upskill, return to work or do something completely different, the event will allow them to find out more about the opportunities and support available, and to map out their next steps.

It is taking place during National Apprenticeship Week and will also give people the opportunity to hear about apprenticeship opportunities, including higher apprenticeships, which are the equivalent of a foundation degree or higher.

Exhibitors will include Thurrock Adult Community College, Go Train, Newcroft Training, Thurrock CVS Volunteer Centre, Impulse Leisure, Kier, United Living, SPD Nursecare, First Data, Wates and South Essex College, which will be promoting the courses it offers for adults. There will also be the chance to try the council’s new virtual reality software, which offers a glimpse into work in logistics.

Angela O’Donoghue, principal and chief executive at South Essex College, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this event as it supports our commitment of delivering high quality skills and training provision in the local community.

“At South Essex College we welcome a diverse range of students and truly believe it is never too late to gain the skills you need to find your perfect career.”

The South Essex Skills Roadshow has been organised by Thurrock, Castle Point, Basildon, Rochford and Southend Councils and also includes events in Southend and Basildon.

Register online for free at: www.skillsroadshow.eventbrite.co.uk